Unverified news of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death sent shockwaves through Srinagar, igniting protests that turned ugly on Monday. Throngs of demonstrators hit the roads in solidarity, but violence erupted, forcing a robust police intervention.
Kashmir districts were already under lockdown precautions, bolstered by extensive security arrangements. Undeterred, protesters converged, hurling stones and escalating the standoff. Officers retaliated with volleys of tear gas and baton assaults, dispersing the unruly crowd amid dramatic footage.
Communications blackout followed: no mobiles, no internet in Srinagar. All exams shelved, academic institutions locked until at least March 3, as per official directive.
LG Manoj Sinha convened an urgent security huddle, then beseeched peace via X: ‘Reviewed J&K security; appeal to all for peace and restraint.’
CM Omar Abdullah had preemptively warned on Sunday about Middle East strife, including Khamenei reports. ‘Deep concern over Iran events; stay peaceful, avoid provocations,’ read the CMO’s X update.
As the dust settles, the episode reveals deep-seated regional ties to global Islamic leadership. Authorities brace for more unrest, prioritizing public safety in these charged times.