Internet Services Curtailed in Srinagar After Large Protests in J&K Over Reported Killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Mobile internet services were curtailed in parts of Srinagar after large protests erupted across Kashmir over reports of the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei.

Thousands gathered in different parts of Srinagar and adjoining areas, with many converging at Lal Chowk in the city centre. Protesters raised slogans condemning the alleged killing and expressed anger against the United States and Israel.

Authorities said internet restrictions were imposed as a precautionary measure in view of continuing protests and a shutdown call issued for the following day. The administration also announced the closure of schools and colleges for two days.

Security Deployment Intensified

Heavy deployment of police and paramilitary forces was reported across key locations in the city. Senior officials, including Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, visited protest sites to monitor the situation.

Despite the scale of the demonstrations, officials confirmed there were no reports of violence or untoward incidents. The protests were described as largely peaceful.

Large crowds assembled outside the office of the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) in Sonwar, Srinagar. Protesters attempted to submit a memorandum, but no UN officials engaged with the gathering. Security forces barricaded the main gate, following which demonstrators staged a sit-in for several hours, temporarily blocking traffic.

Public Reaction and Appeals for Calm

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appealed for calm amid the protests. He said the state government was in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safety and well-being of residents from Jammu and Kashmir, including students currently in Iran.

Women and children were among those participating in the demonstrations, with many carrying photographs and flags. Some protesters described the development as a major loss for the Shiite Muslim community.

Slogans were raised during the march, reflecting strong sentiments among participants.

Unusual Scale of Demonstration

Observers noted that such large-scale public protests have been rare in Srinagar in recent years. The gatherings reflected strong emotional responses among sections of the population, particularly given Khamenei’s religious significance to many Shiite Muslims in the region.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as precautionary restrictions remain in place.