Day passes off peacefully

Srinagar Mar 4: Restrictions in parts of Kashmir remained in force for the third consecutive day on Wednesday following the killing of Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in joint air strikes by the United States and Israel, officials said.

Authorities have extended the closure of schools, colleges, and universities till Saturday as a precautionary measure.  Mobile internet speeds continued to remain throttled, while some prepaid mobile connections were reportedly barred in certain areas.

ìRestrictions on the movement and assembly of people continued in many parts of Kashmir,î officials said, adding that the curbs were being strictly enforced in Shia-dominated localities and areas.

A heavy deployment of Police and paramilitary personnel, including the Central Reserve Police Force, was seen across sensitive zones in Srinagar and other districts.

Concertina wires and barricades were placed at key intersections to prevent gatherings and regulate movement.

Authorities described the measures as preventive steps aimed at maintaining law and order.

Srinagarís Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk remained sealed and out of bounds after being barricaded late Sunday night.  At the same time, authorities have decided to go on with restrictions on Thursday as a precautionary measure.

They said that the decision was taken to safeguard public order and prevent any untoward incidents amid the prevailing situation. On Tuesday, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, and Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, appealed for peace and restraint.

They said that the people of Kashmir had expressed grief and concern over the recent developments in Iran.

“We respect the right of every citizen to peacefully express their views, sorrow, and solidarity through dignified and lawful means. However, we are deeply concerned by reports of rioting, violent clashes, and disruption of public order in various parts of Kashmir,” they said.

They said that violence, destruction of property, and confrontation with security forces serves no purpose and only harm our own communities.

“Such actions lead to injuries, loss of life, further restrictions on movement, closure of educational institutions, and unnecessary hardship for families, traders, students, and daily wage earners,” they said. “We earnestly appeal to all sections of society ó youth, elders, womenfolk, religious leaders, and citizens – to exercise utmost restraint and refrain from any form of rioting, violence, or provocative actions.”

They appealed all the citizens to abide by the instructions given by the Police administration in maintaining law and order

They said Police would take strict legal action against instigators and miscreants indulging in rioting and any form of violation of law.

“Authorities are committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting life and property,” they said.