Flag hoisted in 20 J&K districts amid shutdown

Srinagar: The Kashmir Valley observed a complete shutdown on Republic Day, as residents stayed indoors, businesses remained closed and public transport was off the roads.

The authorities had barricaded all the roads leading to the venue of official function at a cricket stadium in Srinagar. Mobile internet was snapped across the Valley despite restrictions on 4G, as part of the larger security measures to avoid any untoward incident, and restored only around 6 pm. Armed forces were seen patrolling on all major roads across the Valley and frisking was intensified on junctions connecting Srinagar with other districts.

The Valley observes a shutdown on January 26 and August 15 every year, as a mark of protest against the Union government.


Amid tight security arrangements, flag hoisting ceremonies were held in all 20 districts of J&K. Lieutenant governor of J&K Manoj Sinha took the salute in winter capital Jammu, where he addressed the gathering as well. Sinha said that political conspiracies and nefarious designs of the neighbouring country (Pakistan) would never be allowed to succeed.

“Security agencies have effectively controlled violence and those who are trying to fulfil their political motives with the help of this proxy war, are being given a befitting reply,” said Sinha.