Restrictions continued in parts of Kashmir for the third consecutive day on Wednesday following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint US-Israel airstrikes, officials said.
Authorities have extended the closure of schools, colleges, and universities until Saturday as a precautionary measure. Mobile internet speeds remained throttled, and some prepaid mobile connections were reportedly barred in certain areas.
“Restrictions on movement and public gatherings continue in several parts of Kashmir,” officials said, adding that the curbs were being strictly enforced in Shia-majority localities.
A heavy deployment of police and paramilitary personnel, including the Central Reserve Police Force, was seen across sensitive zones in Srinagar and other districts. Concertina wires and barricades were placed at key intersections to prevent gatherings and regulate movement. Authorities described the measures as preventive steps to maintain law and order.
Srinagar’s Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk remained sealed and barricaded since late Sunday night. Authorities have decided to continue restrictions on Thursday as a precautionary measure to safeguard public order and prevent untoward incidents amid the prevailing situation.
On Tuesday, the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, and the Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, appealed for peace and restraint, noting that people in the region had expressed grief and concern over the recent developments in Iran.
“We respect the right of every citizen to peacefully express their views and solidarity through lawful means. However, reports of rioting, violent clashes, and disruption of public order are deeply concerning,” they said.
Officials warned that violence and confrontation with security forces only harm communities, lead to injuries, loss of life, further restrictions, and create hardship for families, traders, students, and daily wage earners.
They appealed to all sections of society — youth, elders, women, religious leaders, and citizens — to exercise restraint and refrain from any form of rioting or provocative actions.
Authorities also emphasized that the police would take strict legal action against instigators and miscreants violating the law. “We are committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting life and property,” they said. (Agency)
