36.85 lakh locals, over 29% of J&K’s population, attended I-Day functions this year: Govt.

In Kashmir, according to official figures, Baramulla reported the highest level of participation of about 5,05,909 persons

The J&K administration on Saturday said 36.85 lakh locals, around 29% of the Union Territory’s population, participated in the Independence Day functions this year and termed the feat “a historic milestone”.

A government spokesman said a record number of 36,85,106 persons, out of the total population of 1.25 crore as per the 2011 Census, participated in the celebrations held across the districts of the UT, “displaying patriotic fervor”.

In Kashmir, according to official figures, Baramulla reported the highest level of participation of about 5,05,909 persons, out of 10 lakh population, in 3,353 events. It was followed by Anantnag with 2,45,618 people attending 2676 events.

“Kupwara organized the highest number of 4993 events providing opportunity to 2,34,146 persons and Pulwama organized 1140 events participated by 1,81,195 persons in the district,” the government spokesman said.

A total of 42,879 events were conducted right from the panchayat level, educational institutions, patwar khanas, municipalities, tehsils and block offices.

“It saw enthusiastic participation from a large number of students, elected representatives and government employees,” the spokesman said.

J&K would witness shutdowns, internet blackouts and security restrictions on Independence Day till 2019, the year the Centre ended J&K’s special constitutional position.