Restrictions imposed in Jammu and Kashmir amid protests over killing of Iran's Khamenei

By Nusrat Sidiq

SRINAGAR, Jammu and Kashmir (AA) - Authorities in Indian-administered Kashmir imposed restrictions on public gatherings Monday following widespread protests over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli airstrikes.

Security forces sealed key areas of Srinagar, suspended high-speed internet services, closed educational institutions for two days, and intensified checks at major entry and exit points. Officials described the measures as “precautionary,” aimed at preventing potential law and order disturbances after large demonstrations on Sunday.

Mass protests erupted across the region a day earlier after news broke of Khamenei’s death. A region-wide shutdown was also observed following a strike call by religious leaders led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, with businesses and public transportation remaining closed.

The restrictions drew criticism from political leaders. Lawmaker Aga Ruhullah Mehdi described the closure of the Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) area in central Srinagar as “shameful,” while Tanvir Sadiq said peaceful mourning “is not a crime.”

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called for restraint, urging authorities to allow residents to grieve peacefully. “We must ensure that people in Jammu and Kashmir who are mourning are allowed to do so peacefully,” he said. “The police and civil administration should exercise utmost restraint and refrain from using force or unnecessary restrictive measures.”