Protests in Kashmir, UP Over Khamenei's Airstrike Death

Protests erupted across India's Kashmir region and Uttar Pradesh state following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, killed in a joint United States and Israel airstrike on Tehran on February 28. The 86-year-old leader's death, confirmed by Iranian state media the next day, sparked mourning processions, marches and demonstrations among Shia communities, highlighting longstanding cultural and religious ties to Iran.

In Kashmir, thousands gathered in Srinagar's Lal Chowk and districts including Budgam, Baramulla, Bandipora, Pulwama and Kargil, carrying black flags and portraits of Khamenei while chanting anti-United States and anti-Israel slogans. Demonstrations, which began spontaneously on February 29 and continued into March 1, drew participants from both Shia and Sunni communities, reflecting sectarian solidarity. Security forces deployed in strength across the valley, using mild force in areas like Bemina, Gund Hassibhat and Jehangir Chowk to disperse crowds and maintain order. Authorities restricted mobile internet speeds, closed all educational institutions for two days and diverted traffic in protest zones to prevent disruptions. Local officials...