Srinagar/Jammu: With just 10 days to go for India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations, the security grid in Jammu and Kashmir has been shifted to “High Alert” mode. Commuters in Srinagar and Jammu are witnessing intensified frisking and “Naka” checking as the administration leaves no stone unturned to ensure a peaceful January 26.
January 16, 2026 marks the beginning of the final security sanitization phase. The J&K Police, CRPF, and Army have activated a multi-tier security grid around vital installations, particularly the main venues—Bakshi Stadium (Srinagar) and M.A. Stadium (Jammu).
Ground Situation: Frisking & CCTV Surveillance
According to top security officials, “area domination” exercises have started across the Union Territory, including multiple districts and key highways.
Srinagar: Sharpshooters have been deployed atop high-rise buildings around Lal Chowk and the Bakshi Stadium. Drone surveillance is active in congested areas like Downtown.
Jammu: The Border Security Force (BSF) has intensified patrolling along the International Border (IB) to foil any infiltration attempts in the foggy winter conditions.
Commuter Alert: Travellers on the Jammu–Srinagar National Highway and city roads should expect delays due to rigorous vehicle checking at entry points.
Traffic Advisory: Full Dress Rehearsal on Jan 24 (Expected)
The J&K administration traditionally holds the Republic Day Full Dress Rehearsal on January 24, and Traffic Police in Srinagar and Jammu are expected to issue detailed traffic advisories for January 24 and January 26, 2026.
Restrictions:
In line with past practice, movement of private vehicles is usually restricted around the main venues for several hours in the morning on both 24 and 26 January. Exact timings and restriction zones for 2026 will be confirmed only in the official traffic advisories.
Diversions:
Traffic diversions are typically enforced from key junctions such as Lal Chowk and Residency Road in Srinagar, and Jewel Chowk in Jammu, but commuters should follow only the diversion plan published by the Traffic Police closer to the event. A detailed route plan is expected to be issued by the Traffic Police Headquarters in the coming days.
Internet & Digital Restrictions: VPN Ban in Srinagar, Budgam and Other Districts
For many years, mobile internet suspension has often been used as a standard security protocol on Republic Day in Jammu and Kashmir. In recent years, however, the administration has increasingly relied on more targeted digital restrictions rather than always announcing a blanket Valley-wide shutdown.
General Internet Status: As of mid-January 2026, there is no publicly notified order to suspend mobile internet services across the Kashmir Valley for Republic Day. 4G/5G services are currently operational. However, given the past practice of short-notice shutdowns on 26 January, a final decision closer to the day cannot be ruled out.
VPN Ban in Multiple Districts: While general mobile data remains on, stringent digital monitoring is in place. District magistrates in Srinagar, Budgam, Kulgam, Kathua and several other districts have issued two-month orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) — the new prohibitory provision that, in practice, replaces the old Section 144 CrPC for such restrictions — prohibiting the use of unauthorised Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) on mobile phones and other devices, citing security and public-order concerns.
Why VPNs Are Targeted: Security agencies say VPNs are being misused to bypass filters, coordinate activities and circulate inflammatory or blocked content without easy detection.
Enforcement: Police have already registered cases in Budgam, Rajouri and several Kashmir districts against individuals found using VPNs in violation of district orders, with checks including phone inspections during naka/frisking drives.
Impact on Users: Mobile data is currently working, but users in these districts may find some VPN services technically blocked and could face legal action if caught using banned VPN apps. During this high-alert period, residents are advised not to use unauthorised VPNs to avoid unnecessary scrutiny or legal trouble.
Key Highlights
- Security Level: High Alert (multi-tier security grid in place).
- Rehearsal Date: January 24 (Full Dress Rehearsal – detailed traffic plan awaited).
- Internet: Likely to remain ON, subject to any last-minute security orders.
FAQ Section
A1: Yes, it is generally safe to travel to Kashmir during Republic Day week. However, tourists should carry valid ID proofs (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport) at all times, as security forces are likely to conduct frequent identity checks at tourist spots, highways and city entry points.
A2: Essential services remain open, but major commercial markets in city centres—such as Lal Chowk in Srinagar and Raghunath Bazaar / Residency Road in Jammu—usually remain closed or see restricted movement during the morning parade hours. Normal business activity typically resumes after the official functions conclude and restrictions are lifted.
A3: The main Republic Day function in Srinagar is traditionally held at Bakshi Stadium, where the Lieutenant Governor of J&K or a designated dignitary unfurls the Tricolour, takes the salute at the march past, and addresses the gathering.
Stay tuned to KittoNews for the detailed “Traffic Diversion Plan” and real-time security and internet updates ahead of January 26.
