Tight security blanket across Kashmir
Falak Bilal
New Delhi, Feb 24: The Vice-President of India, C. P. Radhakrishnan, will undertake his maiden visit to Jammu & Kashmir on 25-26 February, 2026.
During the visit, the Vice-President will grace the Convocation Ceremony of University of Kashmir in Srinagar as the Chief Guest on 26th February 2026.
Meanwhile, authorities have rolled out an extensive and multi-layered security apparatus across Kashmir in anticipation of Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan’s maiden visit to the Valley on February 26, officials said.
The Vice President is scheduled to attend the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir, prompting heightened vigilance across Srinagar and other sensitive areas. Security has been particularly intensified around the Hazratbal locality, where the university campus is located, with officials describing the arrangements as “comprehensive and foolproof.”
Senior officials said a robust security grid has been put in place to ensure the safe movement of the Vice President as well as the general public. “All necessary measures have been taken to maintain law and order and to prevent any untoward incident during the visit,” an official said.
Deployment of security forces has been significantly increased at vulnerable and strategic locations. Additional checkpoints have been established at key entry and exit points of the city, while random vehicle checks are being carried out, especially on routes leading to the university campus.
Surveillance has also been stepped up, with intensified day and night patrolling, area domination exercises, and surprise inspections being conducted across Srinagar and adjoining districts. Officials noted that intelligence agencies have been placed on high alert, with strengthened information-gathering mechanisms to counter any potential threats.
To ensure quick response capabilities, counterinsurgency units and quick reaction teams have been strategically positioned across sensitive zones. “Rapid response teams are fully prepared to deal with any emerging situation,” a security official said.
Last week, Inspector General of Police (Kashmir) V. K. Birdi chaired a high-level review meeting at the Police Control Room in Srinagar to assess preparedness for the VVIP visit. During the meeting, officers were directed to enhance vigilance across both urban and rural areas and ensure strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures.
A police spokesperson said, “Special focus has been laid on securing critical infrastructure and vital installations, along with ensuring seamless coordination among all security agencies.”
The Vice President’s visit marks his first to Kashmir since assuming office. He will deliver the convocation address as the chief guest at the university function.
The event will be presided over by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who is also the Chancellor of the university, while Chief Minister Omar Abdullah will attend as the Guest of Honour.
Officials said the convocation will witness the awarding of over 59,000 degrees across various disciplines, making it one of the largest academic gatherings in the Union Territory.
With security agencies leaving nothing to chance, the administration remains focused on ensuring that the high-profile visit proceeds smoothly and peacefully.
