Security Tightened in Rajouri Ahead of Baba Budha Amarnath Yatra and Independence Day

Security has been stepped up across Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district ahead of the annual Shri Baba Budha Amarnath Yatra and Independence Day celebrations on August 15. Security personnel from several agencies, including the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Special Operations Group (SOG) and other central forces, have been deployed at key and sensitive locations across the district as part of enhanced security arrangements.

The heightened security comes ahead of the annual pilgrimage, which attracts thousands of devotees from different parts of the country. Authorities have increased surveillance and strengthened the deployment of personnel to ensure the safety of pilgrims as well as local residents during the yatra and the upcoming Independence Day celebrations.

The Swami Budha Amarnath Ji temple is located at Rajpura Mandi, around 25 kilometres northeast of Poonch city in the Pir Panjal range. The shrine is situated near the confluence of Nallah Gagri and Pulsta Nadi and holds considerable religious importance for devotees. A naturally formed Shivlinga is located inside the temple, which has four doors and witnesses a substantial influx of pilgrims during the annual pilgrimage.

The Budha Amarnath Yatra is traditionally held before Raksha Bandhan, while the annual Budha Amarnath Ji Mela also draws devotees from across the country. Given the expected movement of pilgrims and the approaching national celebration, security agencies have increased their presence at strategic locations and intensified vigilance throughout Rajouri. The Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with central security forces, is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining a heightened state of alert. Authorities are also reviewing security arrangements at important locations to ensure that the pilgrimage and Independence Day events take place peacefully and without disruption.

The 29th batch of pilgrims undertaking the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra passed through Chanderkote in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district on Friday under elaborate security arrangements. The convoy travelled along the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway as security personnel maintained a strong presence and authorities implemented traffic management measures to facilitate the smooth movement of pilgrims heading towards the holy Amarnath cave shrine. With both major events approaching, security agencies across the region remain vigilant and are continuing to strengthen arrangements to ensure the safety of pilgrims and the public.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.