SRINAGAR, Mar 2: Authorities imposed stringent restrictions across several parts of the Valley on Monday following large scale demonstrations over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a joint strike by the United States and Israel.
The historic Ghanta Ghar clock tower at Lal Chowk was cordoned off with barricades placed around the area. Heavy deployment of police and Central Reserve Police Force personnel was seen across Srinagar to prevent gatherings and maintain order.
Khamenei was killed in an airstrike in Tehran on Saturday. Iranian state media confirmed his death a day later, prompting protests and mourning in several countries, including India.
Demonstrations were reported from Lal Chowk, Saida Kadal, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama. Participants raised slogans and held mourning processions. Officials said precautionary measures were taken to avoid any escalation of tensions.
Barricades and concertina wires were installed at key intersections, while similar restrictions were extended to Shia-majority areas in other districts. Kashmir is home to an estimated 15 lakh Shia Muslims.
The measures come amid a one day shutdown call issued by the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulama, led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, urging people to observe the strike peacefully. The bandh received backing from several political groups, including the opposition Peoples Democratic Party headed by Mehbooba Mufti.
As part of the precautionary steps, authorities ordered the closure of all educational institutions, including private schools, for two days to ensure student safety and prevent any untoward incidents.