Jammu & Kashmir Administrative Services (JKPSC)

• 22 Jan 2025

Heightened Security in Jammu and Kashmir

Why in News? 

Security agencies have intensified measures in Jammu ahead of Republic Day celebrations.  

• The security wing of the Jammu and Kashmir Police has taken charge of the Maulana Azad Stadium, where Lieutenant Governor will preside over the Republic Day function, with Chief Minister of the state attending as the chief guest. 

 Key Points 

• Vigilance and Checks: 
  • Station House Officers (SHOs) and Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs) have been instructed to conduct area checks and maintain 24/7 vigilance. 
  • Vehicle and pedestrian checks have been intensified across Jammu, especially in border regions. 
  • ‘Nakas’ and Mobile Vehicle Checkpoints (MVCPs) have been established at key intersections and entry/exit points. 
• Security Along Borders: 
  • Security forces, including the Army, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), police, and Village Defence Guards (VDGs), have heightened vigilance along the International Border (IB), Line of Control (LoC), and sensitive areas. 

 Republic Day 

• About: 
  • Republic Day commemorates the adoption of the Constitution of India on 26th January 1950, and the country’s transition to a republic which came into effect on 26th January 1950. 
    • The constitution was adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India on 26th November 1949 and came into effect on 26^th January 1950. 
  • The Constitution of India repealed the Indian Independence Act 1947 and Government of India Act 1935 when it became effective on 26th January 1950. India ceased to be a dominion of the British Crown and became a sovereign, democratic republic with a constitution. 
• History: 
  • Declaration of Poorna Swaraj: 
    • The Lahore Session of the INC in December 1929 passed the historic "Poorna Swaraj" resolution, calling for total self-rule/sovereignty and complete independence from British rule. 
      • The Declaration of Independence was officially promulgated on 26^th January 1930, and the Congress urged Indians to celebrate "independence" on that day. 
  • Republic Day in Post-Independence India: 
    • From 1930 to 1947, 26^th January was celebrated as "Independence Day" or "Poorna Swaraj Day." 
    • India gained independence on 15^th August 1947, leading to a reevaluation of the significance of Republic Day. 
    • The selection of 26^th January for the promulgation of India's new constitution was ideal due to its existing nationalist significance and alignment with the "Poorna Swaraj" declaration.