𝐈𝐆𝐏 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞, 𝐒𝐦𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐡𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐢 𝐌𝐞𝐥𝐚

Ganderbal, May 31:Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V.K. Birdi (IPS), assured that robust security and logistical measures are in place for the upcoming Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela, scheduled for June 3, 2025.

Speaking to the media, IGP Birdi highlighted the festival’s spiritual importance, noting it as one of the most significant events for the Kashmiri Pandit community. He said thousands of devotees from across the region and beyond are expected to attend. The Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with paramilitary and traffic departments, have coordinated efforts to ensure the event is peaceful and well-managed.

Ahead of the festival, IGP Birdi visited the Kheer Bhawani temple site in Tulmulla, Ganderbal, to review preparations. He was joined by top officials, including DIG Central Kashmir Range Rajiv Omprakash Pande (IPS), DIG CRPF North Sudhir Kumar Singh, SSP Ganderbal Khalil Ahmad Poswal (JKPS), CO 115 Bn. CRPF S.K. Pradhan, and SSP Traffic Rural Kashmir Ravinder Pal Singh.

The team assessed the temple grounds and surrounding areas, focusing on security arrangements, crowd control plans, and traffic flow management. Key priorities included ensuring smooth pilgrim access, sufficient parking, and necessary facilities like sanitation.

IGP Birdi directed senior officials to maintain strict vigilance, control access effectively, and ensure all required amenities are in place to provide a secure and spiritually fulfilling experience for devotees.

The annual Kheer Bhawani Mela is a deeply revered tradition among Kashmiri Pandits, who gather at the sacred temple to offer milk and kheer (rice pudding) to Goddess Ragnya Devi. With preparations nearly finalized, authorities are confident of a safe and successful celebration this year.