SRINAGAR, Indian-controlled Kashmir, Aug. 15 (Xinhua) -- Authorities in Indian-controlled Kashmir on Tuesday held India's Independence Day celebrations amid tight security arrangements, officials said.
The main celebration was held at Bhakshi stadium in Srinagar city, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir.
Region's Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti hoisted the Indian national flag and took the salute by the contingents of police, paramilitary troopers, cadets and school children who marched past the podium.
In her address, Mufti said all the political parties in the region "were like one fist" to protect its special status.
The authorities had imposed severe restrictions around Bhakshi stadium and deployed sharp shooters on the rooftops of houses around the venue to keep tight vigil and ward off any possible militant attack during the official celebration.
"Multi-tier security measures were put in place to ensure hassle free function here," said a senior police officer in Srinagar. "The function ended smoothly."
The Srinagar city and other major towns observed a complete shutdown in response to a strike call given by separatist groups. The shops and business establishments remained closed in response to the call. Traffic was also off the roads.
The old parts of Srinagar were placed under strict restrictions by police and paramilitary.
Hundreds of Indian paramilitary troopers and policemen remained deployed on deserted roads of Srinagar and major towns to foil any militant attack around 70th India's Independence Day anniversary.
The Aug. 15 is an official holiday in the region.
Since 1989, every year on Aug. 15 - India's Independence Day, a shutdown is being observed in the region against New Delhi's rule.
Mobile and Internet services across the region were snapped early Tuesday until afternoon following instructions from the security agencies. Officials say the cell phones were used in the past by militants to trigger remote controlled explosive devices in the region.
A guerilla war aimed at ending New Delhi's rule over the region is going on between militants and Indian troops since 1989.
