Kashmir Turns Into a Military Garrison

SRINAGAR: In the backdrop of multiple attacks across Kashmir that claimed 21 lives including 11 security men,the Valley has been turned into a military garrison.

Security across this conflict torn regiOn has been intensified as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s is scheduled to address a public rally at historic Sher e Kashmir international cricket stadium here on December 8.

AheaD of his visit 17 people including eight army men, three police personnel and six militants were killed after militants stormed the army base in Mohra in Uri sector of Baramulla district on Saturday.

Sources said heightened security arrangements with intense frisking of vehicles and passengers continues. The security men including police, Special Operation Group (SOG), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) conducted frisking throughout the day at all the vital points across valley.

Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, has been completely turned into garrison. Sources said Advance Security Liaison – which consists of top security officials – reviewed security of SK Stadium along with Special Protection Group (SPG) and Special Security Guards (SSG). The security men also conducted the sanitization of the stadium using land mine detectors and high end security gadgets. The security around vital installations has also been beefed up apprehending militant attacks to disrupt the visit of Prime Minister.

"Government forces including army have been directed to intensify frisking and patrolling in the areas which are close to Srinagar," said a top police official.

The Hurriyat factions headed by Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Shabir Shah as well as Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front have called for shutdown against PM’s visit.