Security has been tightened across Srinagar ahead of the maiden visit of Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan, who is scheduled to arrive in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday evening for a two-day visit.
During the visit, the Vice-President will attend the convocation ceremony of University of Kashmir in Srinagar as the chief guest on Thursday, an official spokesman said.
He will arrive in Srinagar on Wednesday evening and proceed directly to Lok Bhawan for an overnight stay.
Authorities in Kashmir have rolled out extensive security measures, maintaining heightened vigilance particularly around the varsity campus at Hazratbal. A multi-layered security grid has been put in place to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the event.
Additional police and central armed police forces have been deployed in sensitive areas to maintain a strict vigil and prevent any untoward incidents.
Security has also been strengthened in both urban and rural areas of the Valley, with intensified round-the-clock patrolling and enhanced surveillance at key entry and exit points. Over the last few days security forces as a preventive measure carried out several speculative cordon and search operations (CASOs) in some parts of Srinagar.
“All necessary arrangements are in place for the event,” officials said.
The Traffic Police has also announced temporary restrictions and diversions on several major routes for February 26 in view of the VVIP visit.
The 21st Annual Convocation of the University of Kashmir will be held at the Convocation Complex, Hazratbal, with the Vice-President of India attending as the chief guest.
The programme will commence with his arrival and a ceremonial plantation, followed by the academic procession and formal opening of the convocation by Chancellor and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.
Officials said degrees for the academic sessions 2023–2025 will be conferred on undergraduate, postgraduate, professional and research scholars, while gold medals will be awarded to toppers.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and other dignitaries will address the gathering before the Vice-President delivers the convocation address.
