Narendra Modi To Visit Kashmir Today, First Time Since Article 370 Abrogation, Dal Lake Commandos, Drone Surveillance
His rally in Srinagar, claimed by the BJP to be the largest in Kashmir's history, is expected to draw over 200,000 attendees.
The atmosphere in the country is politically charged as elections loom, with Prime Minister Modi set to visit Srinagar amidst guaranteed security. This marks Modi's first visit to Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. His rally in Srinagar, claimed by the BJP to be the largest in Kashmir's history, is expected to draw over 200,000 attendees. Stringent security measures have been implemented for Modi's rally, with Srinagar adorned in Indian flags and BJP banners.
PM Modi will travel through a 7-kilometer route to reach Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where he will address a public gathering and unveil several development projects worth ₹64 billion. Ahead of Modi's arrival, Srinagar streets are lined with flags, and barricades have been erected. Security forces are on high alert, sealing off smaller roads and intensifying surveillance outside the stadium.
This rally is significant as it aims to send a message across the nation that Kashmir has undergone substantial transformation. However, there are reports of threats received by locals, warning them against attending Modi's rally. Allegedly, calls originating from international numbers are intimidating residents, urging them to stay away from the event. Consequently, security agencies have heightened their vigilance.
Security arrangements in Srinagar have been intensified, with a significant deployment of personnel along Modi's route and the installation of CCTV cameras and drones for monitoring. The utilization of marine commandos in the Jhelum River and Dal Lake further ensures the prevention of any untoward incidents.
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In light of PM Modi's visit, temporary bans have been imposed on drone and quadcopter flights in Srinagar, emphasizing strict enforcement against unauthorized aerial activities. Several schools have been shut down for Wednesday and Thursday, with board exams postponed until next month.
PM Modi is also expected to announce the Challenge Based Destination Development (CBDD) scheme, along with launching campaigns such as "See Your Own Country People's Choice Tourist Destination Poll" and "Let's Go India Global Diaspora". Additionally, around 1,000 newly recruited government employees in Jammu and Kashmir will receive appointment letters, as Modi engages in discussions with beneficiaries of various central schemes, including women, farmers, and entrepreneurs.
Previously, on February 20, PM Modi inaugurated projects worth ₹13.2 billion for Jammu, highlighting the removal of Article 370 as pivotal for the region's development. He remarked on the liberation of Jammu and Kashmir from dynastic rule, emphasizing his government's commitment to the welfare of common citizens.
