Authorities in Kashmir have lifted restrictions that were imposed earlier in the week following protests over the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The curbs had been introduced as a precautionary measure after demonstrations erupted across the valley in response to the incident.
Officials said the restrictions were gradually withdrawn after the law-and-order situation improved and protests subsided in most areas. Security agencies reported that normal activities have started resuming across several districts, including Srinagar, as public movement and commercial activity returned to normal levels.
The administration had imposed the curbs earlier in the week to prevent large gatherings and maintain peace after spontaneous demonstrations broke out in several parts of Kashmir.
Protests erupted across Kashmir and Ladakh
Large-scale protests were reported in different parts of Jammu and Kashmir and some areas of Ladakh following the news of Khamenei’s killing in alleged US-Israel strikes. Demonstrators gathered in towns and neighbourhoods carrying banners and portraits of the Iranian leader while raising slogans condemning the attacks.
Most of the protests were concentrated in Shia-majority areas, where the Iranian leader is regarded as an influential religious figure. Marches and gatherings were reported in Srinagar as well as in districts such as Budgam, Bandipora, Pulwama and Anantnag.
In several places, protesters blocked roads and staged rallies, prompting authorities to deploy additional security forces to prevent clashes and maintain public order.
Security tightened and internet speeds restricted
Following the protests, the Jammu and Kashmir administration introduced precautionary restrictions across parts of the valley. Security personnel were deployed in large numbers at sensitive locations and important intersections.
Barricades and concertina wires were placed in areas such as Lal Chowk in Srinagar to prevent large gatherings. The iconic Ghanta Ghar clock tower area was also sealed temporarily to avoid mass demonstrations.
Authorities also slowed mobile internet services across Kashmir to limit the spread of rumours and misinformation that could escalate tensions.
Educational institutions in the valley were temporarily closed as a precautionary measure while officials assessed the evolving situation.
Police action and appeal for calm
In some areas where protests intensified, police used crowd-control measures such as tear gas shells to disperse demonstrators and prevent violence. Despite these measures, authorities reported that most protests remained largely peaceful.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration also held meetings with community leaders and civil society representatives to restore calm in the region. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appealed to residents to maintain peace and avoid activities that could disturb law and order.
Following these appeals and the gradual decline in demonstrations, the number of protest locations reportedly dropped significantly over the next few days.
Misinformation concerns prompt police action
Police also registered cases against certain individuals and media platforms accused of spreading misleading information related to the protests and the international conflict. Officials said such content could incite unrest and disturb public order.
Authorities warned that strict action would be taken against those attempting to spread rumours or provoke tensions through social media or other communication platforms.
Normal life gradually resumes
With restrictions lifted, normal life has started returning across Kashmir. Markets have reopened, public transport services have resumed, and daily activities are gradually returning to normal in Srinagar and other towns.
Security forces, however, remain deployed in sensitive areas as a precaution to ensure that the situation remains peaceful. Officials said they will continue monitoring developments closely to prevent any further disturbances.
Regional tensions still influencing local reactions
The protests in Kashmir highlight how international developments in the Middle East can influence public sentiment in the region. Political analysts say religious and geopolitical events often resonate strongly among communities in Kashmir due to cultural and religious connections.
Although the immediate tensions have subsided, authorities remain alert as the broader conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States continues to unfold.