Security tightened around Kashmir stadium ahead of PM Modi's rally

Security has been stepped up in Jammu and Kashmir as preparations are on for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled rally at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket stadium here on Monday.

Adequate security arrangements have been made for the Prime Minister's rally amidst assertions by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that the purpose of the recent militant attacks in the state was to create terror among the masses.

BJP national secretary Tarun Chugh alleged that the series of terror attacks earlier on Friday were aimed at disrupting the ongoing elections in the state.

"The incidents were carried out purposely to change the atmosphere here. However, in the last two parts of the elections, by showing a turnout of more than 70 percent, the people conveyed a message to militants and separatists that the country will now run on ballot and the topic will be about the development of Kashmir," said Chugh.

Chug said that the rally will be a turning point in the history of Jammu and Kashmir.

"Proper security arrangements are made by local government committees, police force and the administration. We believe that the rally will be carried out peacefully," he said.

Sniffer dogs and security personnel were deployed in and around the rally venue. Checking was also carried out with the metal detector machine.

The third phase of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls will take place on December 9.

72 percent voter turnout was registered in the second phase of Assembly elections in the valley on Tuesday.

The result of the assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir will be announced on December 23.