Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Mar 2: Amid security and precautionary restrictions imposed by authorities, hundreds of people across Kashmir took to the streets for the second consecutive day on Monday to mourn the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a joint United States–Israel military strike that escalated tensions in West Asia.
According to reports, the authorities enforced precautionary measures including closure of schools and colleges, internet speed restrictions and district-wide curbs.
Witnesses said that processions were taken out in several Kashmir parts, with participants expressing grief, solidarity and raising slogans. Religious clerics, community leaders and authorities appealed for calm and law-abiding conduct.
Srinagar witnessed gatherings and peaceful rallies at multiple locations, with hundreds participating in processions and mourning rituals.
Processions and rallies were taken out in several parts of Srinagar as well as in Budgam, Bandipora, Sonawari, Pulwama and other areas of South and North Kashmir. Demonstrators carried black flags and portraits of Khamenei.
In several districts, particularly in interior areas and outskirts, crowds raised anti-US and anti-Israel slogans. Security was tightened across the Valley and additional police personnel were deployed to maintain order amid the gatherings.
Security forces were stationed at key intersections and sensitive locations, particularly in Srinagar, to prevent any untoward incident.
Notably, religious leaders including Maulana Masroor Abbas Ansari and Imran Raza Ansari joined public calls urging mourners and protestors “not to take the law into their own hands” and to express their sentiments peacefully and within the ambit of law.
Officials said all restrictions and precautionary measures are temporary and subject to review depending on the evolving situation.
Meanwhile, processions and rallies were also taken out in Ladakh and Kargil districts underscoring the broader spread of the public response following the news of Khamenei’s death.
