Enhanced Security Measures Implemented in Kashmir Ahead of Republic Day 2026

As Republic Day 2026 approaches, authorities in Kashmir have taken significant steps to ensure the safety and security of the Valley during the celebrations on January 26. The main venue of the event, Bakshi Stadium, has been surrounded by a three-tier security ring, reflecting the extraordinary security arrangements in place.

The security grid across Kashmir has been bolstered with multi-layered arrangements, increased area domination, thorough frisking at checkpoints, and enhanced monitoring of highways, railway tracks, and stations. These measures are aimed at maintaining peace and order during the festivities.

Following a comprehensive review by Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat, heightened surveillance of anti-national elements and monitoring of social media platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation have been prioritized. Coordination among all security agencies has been emphasized to ensure a seamless security operation.

A senior Police official disclosed that Bakshi Stadium is now under a three-tier security setup. This includes an outer ring with checkpoints and highway monitoring, a middle layer of intensified patrols and surveillance using drones and CCTV cameras, and an inner layer with sharpshooters positioned on rooftops. Strict access control for VIPs and authorized personnel is being enforced, with a focus on public safety and swift response to any potential threats.

Security protocols in Srinagar, the focal point of Republic Day celebrations in Kashmir, have been intensified. Joint teams of J&K Police and CRPF have been deployed strategically, with special checkpoints and mobile patrols conducting thorough vehicle and individual checks. Night patrols and surprise inspections are ongoing to maintain round-the-clock vigilance and deter any disruptions to public order.

Additional forces have been deployed to sensitive areas across the region, with a strong emphasis on monitoring suspicious activities. Senior officers are personally overseeing the implementation of security measures to ensure their effective execution.

The public has been urged to cooperate during verification processes and report any suspicious activity promptly to the nearest police station or the Police Control Room (PCR).

Reports indicate that intensified security arrangements have been implemented in north, south, and central Kashmir regions. These measures come in response to heightened vigilance following intelligence inputs and recent security incidents, including the detection of an IED on the Srinagar-Baramulla highway.

Notably, security along the strategic Srinagar-Jammu National Highway has been significantly tightened. In Kulgam district, operations have been intensified under the direction of SSP Kulgam, Anayat Ali Choudhary, with close supervision from Additional SP National Highway, Qazigund, SDPO Qazigund, and DySP SOG Mir Bazar.

Random vehicle checks, thorough frisking, and identity verifications are being conducted at key points along the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, including the Kashmir Navyug Tunnel gate, Qazigund, Mir Bazar, and other sensitive locations in Kulgam. Multi-tier patrolling teams equipped with metal detectors and dog squads are actively monitoring the highway and its surroundings.

Authorities have seized multiple vehicles lacking valid documents as part of the crackdown, demonstrating a firm commitment to maintaining security and order in the region.