Restrictions imposed in Kashmir after protests over killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei

Authorities on Monday imposed severe restrictions on the movement of people in parts of Kashmir where massive street protests were witnessed over the killing of Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint strike by the US and Israel.

The iconic Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk has been sealed with barricades erected all around it, officials said.

They said a large number of police and paramilitary CRPF personnel have been deployed across the city to prevent gatherings of protestors.

Khamenei was killed in an airstrike in Tehran on Saturday during a joint Israel-US attack on Iran. Iranian state media confirmed the same on Sunday, triggering a wave of protests and mourning across the world, including India.

Kashmir - which has about 15 lakh Shias - witnessed major protests at Lal Chowk, Saida Kadal, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama, an official said.

The protesters were seen beating their chests as they shouted anti-US and anti-Israel slogans.

The officials said the restrictions were imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.

Concentrated wires and barricades have been placed at important intersections leading into the city, they said.

Similar curbs have been imposed in Shia-dominated areas in other districts of the valley.

The restrictions come in the backdrop of a one-day strike call given by Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

“We urge the people to observe it with unity, dignity, and complete peacefulness,” the Mirwaiz said.

The MMU strike call was supported by several political parties, including opposition PDP president Mehbooba Mufti.

“Extending our full support and solidarity with the shutdown call of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on the martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader. This is a day of mourning to remind the world that injustice anywhere wounds the entire Muslim Ummah and all who stand for truth,” Mufti said.

The authorities have also closed all educational institutions, including private schools, for two days, as a precautionary measure for the safety of students and to maintain law and order.

Mobile internet speeds restricted

Mobile internet speeds were throttled across the Kashmir valley on Monday, in the wake of spontaneous protests against the killing of the Iranian Supreme Leader, official said.

They said the step was taken as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order in the area.

Police issue advisory

The police have issued an advisory urging all media organisations and news platforms to exercise the highest level of responsibility and professionalism in their reporting.

“Please refrain from publishing unverified information, speculation, or rumours; ensure that all reports are confirmed through credible and authoritative sources before dissemination; and avoid sensational headlines that may create unnecessary panic,” the advisory read.

The police said responsible and accurate reporting is essential to maintain public trust and prevent misinformation.