Security has been beefed up across Kashmir ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s election rally in Srinagar tomorrow and third phase of Assembly polls slated for Tuesday. Authorities have thrown a multi-tier security cordon around Sher-i-Kashmir stadium, the venue of Prime Minister’s rally. Checkpoints have been set up across the city after Friday’s attacks that left 21 people dead with police suspecting that Modi’s rally could have been on the radar of militants. Unprecedented security measures have been taken to ensure that no untoward incident takes place during Prime Minister's visit.
Police in consultation with Election Commission of India has deployed double the number of central paramilitary forces for third phase of polling on December 9. The paramilitary forces have already been moved to the areas and are conducting round the clock patrolling. Sixteen Assembly segments spread over three districts (Budgam, Baramulla and Pulwama) in the Valley will go to polls in the third phase.
AIR Srinagar correspondent reports, a thick security blanket has been thrown around the Srinagar city for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's maiden election rally in Kashmir as helicopters were deployed today for surveillance over the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium, the venue of the event, and adjoining areas. Though security forces are already on high alert in view of the Assembly elections and sudden spurt in militant violence, a fresh advisory has been issued to all security agencies to keep a close watch on anti national elements who may try to disrupt peace during the Prime Minister visit to Srinagar. Meanwhile, 400 companies of paramilitary forces have been deployed for the 3rd phase of polling in Kashmir. Many of the areas, where polling will take place, have been declared as sensitive due to security considerations.
Meanwhile, after the last date of withdrawal of nominations, a total of 213 candidates are left in fray for the fifth and final phase of Assembly elections on the 20th of this month. In this phase 20 Assembly constituencies of Jammu region are going to polls.
