Restrictions Imposed Across Kashmir After Protests Over Khamenei’s Assassination

SRINAGAR, MAR 02: Authorities on Monday imposed restrictions in several parts of Kashmir following widespread protests against the assasination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, officials said.
Security was put on high alert across the Valley, with additional deployment of police and paramilitary personnel in sensitive areas to maintain law and order and ensure a peaceful atmosphere.
In Srinagar, the city centre Lal Chowk was sealed and declared out of bounds for both pedestrians and vehicular movement. Barricades were erected at multiple entry points, while security forces maintained a tight vigil across the commercial hub.
Eyewitnesses said movement in Lal Chowk remained minimal, with only a few pedestrians allowed to pass under close monitoring. Shops in the area remained shut and public transport stayed off the roads, giving the usually bustling centre a deserted look.
Restrictions were also enforced in other parts of the city, particularly in downtown areas and at major intersections considered sensitive. Security personnel conducted regular patrols and established checkpoints to regulate movement.
Officials described the measures as precautionary, stating that the restrictions were imposed to prevent any untoward incident following protests witnessed a day earlier.
While no major incident was reported till the filing of this report, the situation remained tense but under control, they said.
Authorities have appealed to the public to maintain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to ensure peace (KNT).