SRINAGAR: Security forces launched multiple anti-militancy operations across Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday as authorities tightened arrangements ahead of the Independence Day celebrations, officials said. Frisking and vehicle checks were increased in Srinagar, major markets were searched and forces cordoned off forested areas following reports of suspicious movement.
Operations in Poonch, Chenab valley and Kashmir
An anti-militancy operation was started in the Mendhar sector of Poonch after a security guard reported suspected movement near an under-construction tunnel that is intended to link the Pir Panjal valley with Kashmir, officials said. They added that the guard fired three to four precautionary rounds and security forces subsequently cordoned off the jungles of Bhata Dhurian and Sangiot.
In the Chenab valley, security agencies launched another operation in Bhaderwah after locals reported movement of suspected terrorists in the upper reaches. Officials said the tip-off suggested possible movement of four terrorists in the Ramtund area and forces moved to trace the individuals.
In the Kashmir valley, frisking and searches of vehicles and markets were intensified throughout the day. Major commercial areas, including Lal Chowk in Srinagar, saw security personnel conducting searches of shops and hotels as part of the stepped-up arrangements, officials said.
Precautionary leave for Pandit employees after online threat
A purported online threat to Kashmiri Pandits prompted additional precautions. Security agencies said members of the community working in the valley were allowed to go on leave until 20 August, pending investigations into the threat, which officials said appeared to originate from across the border.
“For the main function on August 15 in Srinagar, all the security arrangements and preparations for the parade are going on. Security arrangements were not confined to the main venue but had been extended across Srinagar city and all districts of the Valley,”
The comment was attributed to Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Zone, V. K. Birdi, who reviewed security measures in Srinagar and said the arrangements were multi-layered.
Security for public functions and main venue
Officials said the main Independence Day function will be held at Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar, where the Chief Minister is scheduled to hoist the national flag, inspect the parade and take the salute. Security at Bakshi Stadium has been placed under a comprehensive, multi-layered cover, with anti-sabotage teams, bomb disposal squads and sniffer dog units conducting sanitisation and checks, sources said.
Access to the stadium and other designated venues has been regulated through designated gates with identity verification, baggage screening and frisking. Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Armed Police Forces and other security agencies have been deployed, and Quick Reaction Teams positioned at strategic locations, officials added.
- Areas covered by operations: Mendhar (Poonch), Bhaderwah (Doda), Srinagar and other districts of the Valley.
- Precautionary actions: Frisking, vehicle searches, market searches, cordons around forested areas.
- Community impact: Kashmiri Pandits in the valley granted leave till 20 August after online threats.
Monitoring and surveillance
Officials said surveillance measures have been enhanced citywide. A network of CCTV cameras and aerial monitoring were reported active at key venues to track crowd movement and provide situational awareness. For the public, authorities reiterated the need to follow security protocols at venue entry points and cooperate with screening procedures.
| Location | Reported action |
|---|---|
| Mendhar (Poonch) | Operation after guard spotted movement; precautionary rounds fired; cordon of Bhata Dhurian and Sangiot |
| Bhaderwah (Doda) | Operation launched following local tip-off of movement at Ramtund (suspected four terrorists) |
| Srinagar | Enhanced frisking and searches in markets including Lal Chowk; multi-layered security at Bakshi Stadium |
Security officials emphasised that the measures are intended to ensure that Independence Day observances proceed peacefully. They urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local police. Investigations into the online threats and the reported sightings are ongoing, according to official sources.
Note: Details in this report are drawn from official statements and security sources released on August 11, 2026.
