Srinagar, Sep 17: Extensive security measures have been put in place ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s rally scheduled in Srinagar for Thursday.
The event will be closely monitored by various security agencies, with the Special Protection Group (SPG) having already taken over the venue.
The rally will be a crucial event for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as it continues to push for a strong foothold in J&K.
PM Modi’s speech at the rally is anticipated to highlight key national and regional issues and will be part of BJP’s broader campaign in Kashmir.
The venue, Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium which has been adorned with BJP flags, has been thoroughly sanitised, and a multi-layered security grid has been deployed. The Special Protection Group (SPG), responsible for the PM’s security, has taken full control of the rally ground to ensure the highest level of protection.
Police officials said that security forces across Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir have been placed on high alert. There are heightened patrols, and multiple checkpoints have been established to prevent any security breaches.
“The entire area has been under a strict vigil. Entry points are being closely monitored, and frisking operations are in place. Drones and other surveillance equipment are being utilised to monitor movements,” a senior Police officer said here.
PM Modi will arrive at Srinagar Technical Airport, after which he will be flown by helicopter to the Badami Bagh Cantonment, the headquarters of the Army’s 15 Corps. From there he is scheduled to head to the rally venue.
The rally is set to begin at noon, with PM Modi expected to address thousands of supporters, including key BJP leaders, party workers, and residents from various parts of J&K. Security forces are particularly focused on maintaining a calm atmosphere around the venue, ensuring the rally goes off smoothly.
The rally comes at a critical juncture for the BJP as the party has been trying to consolidate its position in Kashmir ahead of the assembly polls.
PM Modi’s presence is expected to provide a significant boost to BJP’s prospects, especially in areas like Srinagar, where the party has historically struggled to gain a strong voter base.
The rally will likely see the PM touch upon development projects, security concerns, and political developments post-Article 370 abrogation while emphasising the government’s efforts to bring peace and stability to J&K.
In anticipation of the rally, authorities are likely to enforce some traffic restrictions in parts of the city. Residents have been advised to avoid certain areas, particularly those near the rally venue. Some roads leading to the venue will likely see restrictions until the conclusion of the event, and alternative routes will be provided for regular traffic.
Additionally, authorities are closely monitoring intelligence inputs to ensure there are no disruptions or security challenges. Security drills have been conducted over the past few days, with bomb disposal squads and sniffer dogs scanning the area.
Nonetheless, the BJP is keen on ensuring a strong turnout, with party workers reaching out to residents across Kashmir to rally support. The PM’s rally could play a pivotal role in energising BJP’s base and drawing new supporters in Kashmir.
This week PM Modi started the campaign trail in J&K ahead of the assembly polls.
PM Modi held a rally in Doda, which marked the first visit to the region by the PM in 42 years.
After Doda, Srinagar will be his second rally.
Meanwhile, the Police said that Srinagar city has been declared a “temporary red zone” for the operation of drones and quadcopters as per provisions of Rule 24(2) of Drone Rules, 2021, with immediate effect.
It said that all unauthorised drone operations in the “red zone” are liable to be penalised as per relevant provisions of the Drone Rules, 2021.
