Tight security in Srinagar for R-Day

Security has been beefed up in Srinagar following reports that militants may try to strike on Republic Day.

On Thursday militants gunned down two persons, including a prominent National Conference worker, who were travelling in a bus in Baramullah district.

Police said the militants dragged out NC activist Ghulam Rasool Dar and Ghulam Ahmad Dar and shot them near village Saraipul.

"We have intensified cordon and seizure operations across the valley and frisking of commuters on the highways," said a police officer.

The Border Security Force is searching various localities in Srinagar and several people have been detained for questioning.

The localities around Bakshi Stadium, were the main Republic Day function will be held on Sunday, have been sanitised and security forces have taken positions.

The security forces have even taken positions on the high-rise buildings around the stadium.

"We will have three-tier security, comprising of the BSF, CRPF [Central Reserve Police Force] and the state police, around the stadium. The arrangements have been finalised," said the police officer.

The All-Parties Hurriyat Conference has called for a general strike on Sunday and asked the people to observe January 26 as a 'black day'.

Security is also tight in Jammu, where the governor will unfurl the tricolour and take salute.