Srinagar: Srinagar witnessed widespread unrest for the second consecutive day on Monday following reports of the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. A shutdown called in protest brought normal life across the Kashmir Valley to a near standstill.
In several areas, protesters allegedly violated prohibitory orders and attempted to take out processions. Police resorted to baton charges and fired tear gas shells to disperse violent demonstrators and prevent escalation. Authorities deployed additional contingents of police and paramilitary forces in all sensitive locations to maintain law and order.
The administration announced a two-day closure of all educational institutions, and internet speeds were restricted as a precautionary measure. In Srinagar, key routes leading to Lal Chowk, Abi Guzar, Alamgari Bazar and Lal Bazar were sealed. Similar restrictions were imposed in Shia-majority areas of Baramulla, Pattan, Magam, Budgam, Pulwama, Shopian and Bandipora.
Despite administrative curbs, large numbers of members of the Shia community gathered in parts of the Valley. Carrying posters of the late Iranian leader and placards bearing slogans against the United States and Israel, protesters marched toward Lal Chowk while raising slogans. Some participants were reportedly seen carrying flags associated with Palestine, Iran and Hezbollah.
Near Batamaloo, personnel of the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) stopped the procession, citing prohibitory orders. Security officials asked the demonstrators to disperse, but the crowd allegedly ignored the warnings and attempted to push through barricades. Some protesters reportedly damaged public property and broke security barriers.
As the situation intensified, security forces carried out a lathi-charge and used tear gas to bring the crowd under control, leading to brief but violent clashes. Protesters regrouped multiple times even after being dispersed. After nearly an hour of confrontation, authorities managed to restore order and clear the area.
Officials said the situation remains under close monitoring, with heightened security across the Valley to prevent further disturbances.
