Shops open for the first time since the 1990s
Suhail Khan
Srinagar: Markets in several areas of Kashmir remained open on Republic Day for the first time since the 1990s as people call it as a symbol of Naya Kashmir.
In Lal Chowk, on the day that the entire nation celebrated the 74th Republic Day, businesses were open for the first time since 1990 with no Hurriyat, no curfew, and no band call. Maximum shops were open and vehicular movement was seen in the area.
The local residents told the media that with faith in their hearts and independence in their thoughts, they honour the nation.
“We feel proud to be part of the celebration of our Republic Day,” they said.
They further said, “We are proud Indians; It is our nation, and we will participate in each and every celebration of it.”
It is pertinent to mention that the BJP unfurled the tricolour on the clock tower at historical Lal Chowk in Srinagar, marking the occasion of the 74th Republic Day.
“Before the abrogation of Article 370, previous regimes never permitted the unfurling of the tricolour here, citing law and order issues.”
This is the second year that the Indian national flag has been hoisted at the iconic location.
For the first time in history, the Indian tricolour was unfurled atop the Clock Tower in Srinagar’s famous Lal Chowk area to mark the country’s 73rd Republic Day in 2022.
Meanwhile, the main Republic Day function in the valley was held at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium at Sonwar. The advisor to Lieutenant Governor Rajesh Rai Bhatnagar was the chief guest and presided over the function.
Braving bone-chilling cold, contingents of the police, CRPF, NCC, and schoolchildren took part in the march past where Bhatnagar took the salute. After the parade, artists from various parts of the union territory performed at the cultural event.
