Peaceful Independence Day celebrations across country

New Delhi, Aug 15: The 60th Independence Day celebrations passed off peacefully across the country even as unprecedented security measures were put in place in the national capital and in insurgency-wracked states in view of the increased threat of terrorist strikes.

Delhi resembled a fortress with police barricades on virtually every road and heavy security presence elsewhere on important buildings and public places.

The Red Fort, from where Prime Minister Manmohan Singh reiterated his Government's resolve to ''neutralise and smash'' the ''ugly face'' of terrorism, was put under layers of security cover.

Bureaux reports spoke of peaceful Independence Day celebrations in the states with Governor and Chief Ministers taking the salute at official functions in capital cities.

The President's decorations were awarded while the Governments also used the occasion to highlighted their achievements. It was business as usual in Tamil Nadu with Chief Minister M Karunanidhi making the announcement that poor families would get free gas connection and stoves from Pongal next January. The scheme would cost the government an estimated Rs 150 crore, he said.

The official celebrations passed off peacefully in Srinagar and in other insurgency-hit states also.

The day was also celebrated with traditional gusto at Indian missions abroad.

UNI

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