Srinagar, Mar 2: Spontaneous peaceful protests erupted in several parts of the Kashmir Valley on Monday against the killing of Iran’s top leadership, but the demonstrations remained largely peaceful and did not disrupt normal life, officials said.
Authorities confirmed to news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) that small processions and gatherings were held in areas with significant Shia populations, including Lal Chowk and Saida Kadal in Srinagar, as well as in Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag, and Pulwama districts.
A senior administration official told news agency (KNS) that while sentiments were high following the killing of the Iranian leader in a joint US-Israel strike, the situation remained “calm and under control.”
“There were no reports of violence, stone-pelting, or damage to property. All demonstrations were peaceful,” the official said, adding that most markets and business establishments remained open throughout the day.
Traffic movement was reported to be thin on the roads, following a strike call issued by Kashmir’s cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Sunday. However, officials said that essential services and vehicular movement continued, with the situation remaining peaceful everywhere.
To prevent the spread of misinformation on social media, authorities imposed restrictions on mobile internet speeds as a “preventive measure.” An official spokesperson clarified that the step was not in response to any deterioration in the law and order situation but was taken to maintain the prevailing peaceful atmosphere.
“The administration is committed to maintaining harmony. Full internet speeds will be restored after a periodic review of the ground situation,” the spokesperson added.
Meanwhile, as an additional precaution, authorities on Sunday ordered the closure of all colleges and schools across Kashmir for two days.
Adequate police deployments have been made in sensitive areas, but officials stated that no coercive action was required given the peaceful nature of the protests. (KNS)