Kashmir Under Lockdown: Authorities Respond to Protests Following Khamenei's Death

In response to protests erupting over the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, authorities in Kashmir have imposed restrictions across the Valley. All educational institutions are closed for two days, and police have established barricades in key areas to maintain order. The situation is being closely monitored, especially in regions with significant Shia Muslim populations. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has called for peace and restraint, urging communities to avoid actions that could lead to unrest. The government is coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safety of residents, including students studying in Iran. Read on for more details about the unfolding situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 2, 2026, 10:07 IST

Kashmir Valley Faces Restrictions Amid Protests

Srinagar: On Monday, officials implemented restrictions throughout the Kashmir Valley to maintain order, mandating the closure of all educational institutions for a two-day period.

These measures aim to prevent any potential exploitation of public sentiment following the recent US-Israeli military actions against Iran, according to authorities.

Given the significant Shia Muslim population in various parts of Srinagar, the restrictions are particularly stringent in the old city and uptown areas.

All schools, colleges, and universities have been ordered to close for two days, with Kashmir University postponing all exams scheduled for Monday and Tuesday.

After a nearly three-month winter break, schools for grades 9 to 12 were set to reopen on Monday.

Police and security forces have been deployed in large numbers, establishing barricades in the city center, particularly at Lal Chowk, where thousands gathered on Sunday to protest the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli airstrikes.

Restrictions are now in effect across all ten districts of the Valley.

The administration in Ladakh is also monitoring the situation closely, especially in Kargil, which has a predominantly Shia Muslim population.

Movement of vehicles is being restricted between areas, and inter-district public transport has been suspended for the day.

Traffic on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway continues to operate normally, albeit with a reduced number of private vehicles.

Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha held a security review meeting on Sunday, while DGP Nalin Prabhat is currently in Srinagar to oversee security measures on the ground.

In a message on Sunday, the Lt. Governor urged for calm and peaceful conduct among the populace. He stated on X, “Chaired a meeting to review the security situation across J&K UT. Called upon all communities to stay peaceful and calm. I salute the unwavering, synchronized resolve of our Police and security forces upholding law and order.”

In addition to local doctors and engineers, around 1,200 students from Kashmir are currently studying in Iran.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his deep concern regarding the situation in Iran, particularly the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

He urged all communities to maintain peace and avoid actions that could escalate tensions. Abdullah emphasized the need for the police and administration to exercise restraint and allow those mourning in Jammu and Kashmir to grieve without disturbance. The Jammu & Kashmir government is coordinating closely with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safety of residents, including students in Iran.