Iran-Israel Conflict: Restrictions imposed in Kashmir after protests over Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei’s killing

Authorities on Monday, March 2, 2026, imposed severe restrictions on the movement of people in parts of Kashmir that saw mass street protests over the killing of Iran’s religious leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint attack by the United States and Israel.

The iconic Ghanta Ghar in Lal Chowk has been barricaded around, officials said. They said a large number of police and paramilitary CRPF personnel were deployed across the city to prevent protesters from gathering.

Khamenei was killed in an airstrike in Tehran on Saturday, February 28, 2026, during the joint Israeli-US attack on Iran. Iranian state media confirmed the same on Sunday, March 1, 2026, sparking a wave of protests and mourning across the world, including India.

Kashmir, home to around 15,000 Shiites, witnessed major protests in Lal Chowk, Saida Kadal, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama, an official said.

Protesters were seen beating their chests while chanting anti-US and anti-Israeli slogans. Officials said the restrictions were imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.

They said concentrated fences and barricades had been placed at major intersections leading into the city. Similar restrictions were imposed in Shiite-dominated areas in other districts of the valley.

Mirwaiz said the restrictions came after a one-day strike call by Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU) president Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. “We call on the public to observe this in unity, dignity and complete peace.” he said.

MMU’s strike call was supported by several political parties, including Opposition PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti.

Ms. Mufti said, “We extend our full support and solidarity to Mirwaiz Omar Farouk’s call for closure on the martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader. This is a day of mourning to remind the world that injustice everywhere hurts the entire Muslim Ummah and all those who defend the truth.” he said.

Authorities also closed all educational institutions, including private schools, for two days to ensure the safety of students and to maintain law and order.