By IANS
Srinagar : India’s 59th Republic Day was celebrated amid a shutdown in the Kashmir Valley Saturday, with Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baigh pledging to continue the war against “foreign guerrillas”.
There was no violence during the day, which began with a mild snowfall.
“It was the most peaceful Republic Day in Kashmir in years. Militants made nearly half a dozen attempts to cause blasts but we foiled them,” a police officer said here.
Authorities had thrown a thick security blanket around Srinagar two days ahead of Jan 26 and blocked all roads leading to the Bakshi Stadium, where the main function was held.
In his address, Baigh said: “Local militants who lay down their weapons and join the national mainstream will be received with open arms. (But) the fight against the foreign guerrillas will continue.”
Paramilitary sharpshooters were deployed atop buildings around the stadium to prevent militants from launching rockets or grenades towards the venue.
Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troopers carrying automatic weapons manned barricades on the roads.
Republic Day functions were also held at all district headquarter towns in the valley.
Life in the entire valley was, however, paralysed in view of a strike called by two groups of the Hurriyat Conference and militant groups. Streets in Srinagar were deserted.