Srinagar, Aug 15: For the first time in the past 14 years, Independence day passed off peacefully in Jammu and Kashmir today as tight security arrangements were in place for the day, official sources said.
There were no reports of any untoward incident from anywhere in the state as VIPs, including Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed unfurled the tricolour at government organised functions, they said.
Sayeed unfurled the national flag at Bakshi stadium here, where the main government function was held. In the past, militants have been trying to disrupt the days proceeding by, firing rockets and rifle grenades towards the venue's of celebration though without causing any serious harm.
Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma presided over the Independence day function at Jammu while state finance minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig took salute at Baramulla, the source said.
Rural Development Minister Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed was the chief guest at Anantnag, Forest Minister Ghulam Mohiuddin Sofi at Kupwara, Revenue Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen at Budgam and minister for health Choudhary Lal Singh at Kathua, they added.

In Ladakh, Thupstan Chhewang took salute at the function held at Leh while youth services and sports minister Haji Nissar Ali presided over the function at Kargil, they added.

Security agencies were on their toes following intelligence reports that four 'fidayeen' (suicide) squads had entered the city to create trouble on Independence day.
Bureau Report