Restrictions, checkpoints intensified across Jammu region ahead of New Year
Jammu: In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, authorities have intensified restrictions, erected additional checkpoints and stepped up vehicular and body searches across Jammu region in the name of New Year celebrations.
According to Kashmir Media Service, joint teams of Indian Army, police and paramilitary forces have expanded area domination exercises along the Working Boundary, Line of Control and in hinterland areas on the pretext of so-called suspicious movements. The measures include frequent frisking, roadblocks and surprise raids, further tightening control over civilian movement in the region.
Restrictions have been particularly intensified in and around sensitive installations, tourist spots and religious places on the year-end period. Multiple checkpoints and nakas have been established across Jammu city and along all major stretches of the Jammu–Srinagar highway, with additional deployment at so-called vulnerable points.
Police officials said instructions have been issued for heightened checking, visible deployment of forces and extensive use of surveillance equipment.
According to officials, special restrictions and checking arrangements have been enforced in tourist destinations such as Patnitop and Sanasar, which usually witness increased footfall during New Year festivities.
Meanwhile, traffic police have also announced intensified checking drives across Jammu city. Authorities said vehicles will be subjected to strict searches at checkpoints, while motorists and commuters may face body searches at various locations, especially near malls, hotels, clubs and public gathering points.
Additional checkpoints have been set up near major commercial centres, hotels and public places, where large gatherings are expected on the night of December 31.
Residents and observers say the increased restrictions, checkpoints and intrusive searches have added to public inconvenience and fear, reflecting a broader pattern of heavy-handed control measures routinely imposed on civilians in IIOJK, particularly during events and holidays.
