Examiner Bureau | Srinagar, Feb 26:
Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan arrived in Kashmir on Wednesday evening on his maiden visit to the Valley, where he will attend the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir.
The Vice President was received at the Technical Airport around 5 PM by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, along with senior civil and police officials. His cavalcade later proceeded to Lok Bhawan, where he will stay overnight.
On Thursday, Radhakrishnan will serve as the Chief Guest at the University’s 21st convocation ceremony in Hazratbal, marking his first official engagement in Kashmir since assuming office. The Lieutenant Governor, who also serves as Chancellor of the University, will preside over the ceremony, while the Chief Minister, as Pro-Chancellor, will attend as Guest of Honour.
During the convocation, a total of 59,558 degrees will be conferred, including 44,910 undergraduate degrees, 13,545 postgraduate degrees, 461 MD/MS degrees, four MCH degrees, 18 M.Phil degrees, and 620 Ph.D. degrees.
Multi-Layered Security in Place
Authorities have established a comprehensive multi-layered security grid across Srinagar, particularly around the university campus in the Hazratbal area. Security forces have been deployed in strength at sensitive and vulnerable locations, with intensified surveillance to counter potential threats.
Random vehicle checks are being conducted at key entry and exit points of the city, especially along routes leading to the university. Additional checkpoints, increased patrolling, area domination operations, and surprise inspections have been initiated to ensure smooth and secure proceedings.
Traffic diversions have been announced, and several roads connecting to the university — including Boulevard Road and Foreshore Road — have been temporarily sealed to the general public.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the Vice President’s visit, stating that students were eagerly awaiting the opportunity to receive their degrees and medals from him. “This is his first visit after assuming office, and we welcome him,” the Chief Minister said.
The visit is being viewed as both a ceremonial milestone for the graduating students and a significant administrative engagement for the Union Territory.
