By IANS,
Jammu : Hundreds of school children took part in colourful parades marking the 61st Republic day of India in Jammu and Kashmir amid peaceful celebrations here under a thick security cover.
Till noon, there were no reports of any violence in the terror-riven state where violent incidents have marked the Republic Day in the past.
The main celebration was held in the winter capital Jammu, which gave a view of curfew-like situation with less presence of people on roads due to thick security cover.
Roads were dotted by security personnel, while army and paramilitary forces guarded the stadium where the main function was held.
The security cover was relaxed later and people were seen hoisting tricolours in their neighbourhoods.
Governor N.N. Vohra unfurled the tricolour at Maulana Azad Memorial stadium and asked separatist leaders to “settle problems through dialogue”.
He asked them to “seriously reflect on the untold losses suffered by the people in the past years and recognise the futility of continuing on the path of confrontation”.
All those who hold contrary beliefs should come forward to participate in a meaningful dialogue, he said.
He said the three regions of the state comprise one organic whole and the surest path to grow and prosper would be for each of the three regions to develop and prosper in complete harmony with each other.