SRINAGAR: After decades, an unprecedented sight greeted Srinagar as long queues formed outside the entry points of the primary venue for the Independence Day function at Bakshi Stadium.
Women, children, and the elderly could be seen waiting in extended queues outside Bakshi Stadium’s entry points, eager to gain access to the stadium and join in the celebrations of the 77th Independence Day.
Eyewitnesses said that from 8am onwards, individuals began assembling outside the venue, forming queues in anticipation of entering the premises.
“We are attending for the first time due to significantly reduced security hassles. Witnessing the parade and listening to the speech of LG Sahib is a source of joy for us,” a group of women said.
They also highlighted their confidence in the peaceful atmosphere in Kashmir, exemplified by the visible air of tranquility. Consequently, they brought their children without apprehension. Lubna, a young woman from the Hyderpora area of Srinagar, emphasised, “With the prevailing peaceful environment in Kashmir, it’s impossible to resist being part of the Independence Day function.”
Abdul Rashid Khan, a Srinagar resident, shared that following recent statements from Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, and DGP Dilbagh Singh assuring people of their safety during the I-Day function, he decided to take the opportunity. “I arrived at Bakshi Stadium at 8:15 am and observed the growing queues. Opting to join the line for an early entry was an easy choice, given how the queues were expanding every minute,” he recounted.
Officials informed local news gatherer KNO that this marked the first instance of such substantial local participation in the Srinagar I-Day event, indicative of a shifting atmosphere and prevailing peace in the Valley.
