Protests in J&K, candle march in Raipur over Khamenei death | India News
SRINAGAR/JAMMU: Security restrictions were tightened across the Kashmir Valley on Monday as protests against the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei entered a second day, spreading across districts in the Jammu region and drawing candlelight vigils in Chhattisgarh’s capital Raipur.J&K police fired tear gas and baton charges at several flashpoints, while authorities cut mobile internet speeds and sealed off key centers in the city. In Budgam district, hundreds of women and children joined the march, chanting slogans against Israel and America.
Clashes broke out along the Srinagar-Gulmarg road when Shia mourners tried to march towards Srinagar. Srinagar’s Lal Chowk, the epicenter of protests on Sunday, was cordoned off with concertina wire. Police and paramilitary units manned checkposts, stopping vehicles. Shops were closed across Srinagar and many parts of the Valley. Heavy restrictions will continue on Tuesday, a senior police official said.The National Conference condemned the ban. Law and order in Union Territories is beyond the control of the elected government.Outside the valley, closures have occurred in Kishtwar and Doda districts of Jammu region. DoDA authorities have issued an advisory urging restraint as most shops and businesses remain closed, officials said. In the Ramban, Shia communities held a second day of commemorative prayers in honor of Khamenei and others killed in the airstrike. Small protests were reported from Rajouri and Poonch.Far from Jammu and Kashmir, the grief reached Raipur. In the Mominpara area, members of the Shia community – children among them – lit candles, prayed and carried posters welcoming Khamenei, condemning the US and Israel. Placards target Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu. The policeman added as a precaution. Officials said the situation is calm.(Input from Raipur)
