Security heightened in Kashmir; curbs to continue today

Srinagar, Mar 3: Restrictions continued across Kashmir for second consecutive day on Tuesday to prevent protests over the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israel strikes.

In Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir, Police imposed strict curbs on public movement to deter fresh protests.

Educational institutions, which have remained closed since Monday for two days, continued to stay shut.

Authorities said a decision regarding reopening would be taken later in the evening after reviewing the situation.

Mobile internet speeds were also restricted as a precautionary measure.

Restrictions were intensified in several Shia-dominated localities that have witnessed protests since Sunday.

Large gatherings had earlier converged at Srinagarís iconic Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk, marking the first major mass assembly in the area since 2019.

However, since Monday, the commercial hub has been sealed with tin sheets, and security forces fired tear gas shells to prevent protesters from moving towards the city centre. On Monday stone-pelting incidents were reported during some demonstrations, resulting in injuries to several individuals, including security personnel.

This came despite appeals for calm and restraint by prominent Shia leaders.

Security deployment has been heightened across sensitive zones, with paramilitary forces patrolling vulnerable areas.  Along the highway connecting Srinagar to frontier districts in north Kashmir, authorities issued traffic advisories anticipating potential disruptions due to protests.

Meanwhile, in Poonch district of Jammu, a shutdown was observed with shops and markets remaining closed.

Both Muslim and Hindu communities participated in the bandh.

Authorities in Kashmir have decided to continue restrictions on the movement of people in several parts of the valley amid ongoing protests against killing of spiritual leader, officials said on Wednesday

The decision was taken following a high-level review of the prevailing law and order situation by senior civil and Police officials. After assessing ground reports and security inputs, authorities resolved that the curbs would remain in place as a precautionary measure to prevent any escalation. Officials said that no public assembly or gathering will be allowed, and strict restrictions have been imposed in sensitive areas.

Movement of civilians will be regulated, particularly in locations identified as vulnerable.

A senior Police officer said the measures are purely preventive in nature.

ìAfter reviewing the situation, it has been decided that restrictions on movement will remain in force. No assembly will be permitted. The step has been taken to maintain peace and prevent any untoward incident,î the officer said.

Security forces have been deployed in significant numbers across key towns, with additional personnel stationed at major intersections and public squares.

Barricades have been erected in various localities to regulate vehicular and pedestrian movement, and patrolling has been intensified to ensure compliance with the orders.

The continued restrictions follow protests reported from several parts of the Valley, including Srinagar and districts such as Budgam district and Bandipora district.

Authorities said the situation is being monitored closely and will be reviewed on a day-to-day basis.

Residents have been urged to cooperate with the administration and refrain from spreading rumours or unverified information. Officials reiterated that any violation of prohibitory orders would attract legal action under relevant provisions of law.