Independence Day celebrated in Punjab, Haryana

Chandigarh: Punjab, Haryana and their joint capital Chandigarh today celebrated the Independence Day amid tight security arrangements.

Patriotic fervour and gaiety marked the occasion across the two states and the Union territory as flag hoisting ceremonies were held at district headquarters, educational institutes and other places, officials said.

Independence Day celebrations passed off peacefully in the two states, the officials said. Freedom fighters, who played a vital role in the struggle for independence, were remembered on the occasion.

Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator V P Singh Badnore unfurled the tricolour at a function in Chandigarh and Haryana Governor Kaptan Singh Solanki hoisted the flag in Yamunanagar.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh unfurled the tricolour at a state-level function in Ludhiana. Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar unfurled the tricolour in Hisar.

The governors of Punjab and Haryana cancelled their ‘At Home’ functions in the wake of the demise of their Chhattisgarh counterpart Balramji Dass Tandon, 90, in Raipur yesterday.

Tandon’s last rites will be performed in Chandigarh in his native state tomorrow with full state honours. ‘At Home’ function is the annual reception held at the Raj Bhavan as part of Independence Day celebrations on August 15.