Srinagar, January 26, 2026 : Republic Day was celebrated with traditional zeal and patriotic fervour across Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, with the main function in the Kashmir Valley held at Bakshi Stadium, Srinagar, amid stringent security arrangements, officials said.
A three-tier security blanket was put in place around the stadium, with all entry points heavily guarded by police and paramilitary forces. Additional security personnel were deployed within a one-kilometre radius of the venue, and only invited guests were allowed to enter the stadium.
Officials said the security arrangements this year were reminiscent of the period prior to the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. However, mobile phone and internet services remained functional, including within the venue, marking a key difference from earlier years.
The main function at Bakshi Stadium was presided over by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary, while his cabinet colleagues Sakina Ittoo and Javed Dar unfurled the National Flag at official Republic Day functions in Anantnag and Baramulla, respectively.
Despite the biting cold, contingents of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, NCC, and schoolchildren participated in the march-past, presenting a salute to the Deputy Chief Minister. The parade was followed by cultural performances by artists from different parts of the Union Territory, showcasing its rich cultural heritage.
The 20,000-capacity Bakshi Stadium was nearly full, with a large presence of government employees among the attendees. The National Flag was hoisted at all government offices, including the office of the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and several National Conference MLAs from Srinagar were also present at the Republic Day celebrations at Bakshi Stadium.
