Clashes erupted in parts of Srinagar after protests over the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei turned violent, leaving at least 12 people injured, including five police personnel. The unrest began when demonstrators attempting to march toward Lal Chowk were stopped by security forces.
Police said sections of the crowd responded with intense stone throwing, forcing authorities to use tear gas shells and batons to disperse the protesters. While reiterating respect for peaceful expression, officials made it clear that rioting, clashes, and disruption of public order would not be tolerated. They warned that strict legal action would be taken against those instigating violence.
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Although large protests were not permitted under prevailing restrictions, small groups surfaced at multiple locations across the Valley. At Shalteng along the Srinagar-Baramulla Highway, angry youths again hurled stones at security personnel, and a few private vehicles were reportedly damaged. Police later chased away the protesters and reopened the road to traffic.
Officials noted that such scenes of stone pelting had not been witnessed in Srinagar for several years. Notably, Sunday’s massive gathering at Lal Chowk had remained peaceful, with authorities allowing the march to proceed.
In response to the latest unrest, security has been tightened, mobile internet services curtailed, and schools and colleges across Kashmir ordered shut for two days to prevent further escalation.
