Restrictions imposed in Kashmir after protests over killing of Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei

Severe restrictions imposed in Kashmir amid protests over Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei's killing, impacting movement and schools.

Authorities on Monday (March 2, 2026) imposed severe restrictions on the movement of people in parts of Kashmir where massive street protests were witnessed over the killing of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a joint strike by the U.S. and Israel.

The iconic Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk has been sealed with barricades erected all around it, officials said. They said a large number of police and paramilitary CRPF personnel have been deployed across the city to prevent gatherings of protestors.

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

Kashmir — which has about 15 lakh Shias — witnessed major protests at Lal Chowk, Saida Kadal, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama, an official said.

The protesters were seen beating their chests as they shouted anti-U.S. and anti-Israel slogans. The officials said the restrictions were imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.

Concentrated wires and barricades have been placed at important intersections leading into the city, they said. Similar curbs have been imposed in Shia-dominated areas in other districts of the valley.