Unprecedented public gathering at I-Day function in Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 15 (UNI) For the first time since the past 20 years, the main Independence Day function at the Bakshi Stadium here today was witnessed by about 20,000-25,000 people.

An official spokesman said unprecedented participation of people and jubilation marked the I-Day celebrations in Kashmir.

He said it was for the first time since past 20 years that the Bakshi Stadium was jam-packed with the people who had turned up to witness the function.

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad unfurled the tricolour and took the salute of the march past amid thunderous applause by the huge gathering.

A mass drill, martial arts and colourful cultural programmes were presented by the school children, police and para-military forces on the occasion.

Among those present were former Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, Jammu and Kashmir High Court Chief Justice Bashir ahmed Khan, Leader of the Opposition in the state Assembly Abdul Rahim Rather, Legislative Council Chairman Abdul Rashid Dar, XV Corps General Officer-in-Commanding Lt Gen S S Dhillon, MLAs, MLCs, senior Army, para-military, civil and police officials.

The spokesman said the Independence Day was celebrated with enthusiasm and fervour throughout the state with huge participation of the people.

UNI AG LS PC1605