Srinagar, March 2 Authorities on Monday imposed strict restrictions on the movement of people in parts of Kashmir where massive street protests were witnessed over the killing of Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following a joint attack by the US and Israel.
The iconic Ghanta Ghar (clock tower) at Lal Chowk has been sealed with barricades erected around it, officials said.
They said a large number of police and paramilitary CRPF personnel have been deployed across the city to prevent gatherings of protestors.
Khamenei was killed in an airstrike in Tehran on Saturday during a joint Israel-US attack on Iran. Iranian state media confirmed this on Sunday, triggering protests and mourning across the world, including India.
Kashmir — which has about 15 lakh Shias — witnessed major protests at Lal Chowk, Saida Kadal, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag, and Pulwama, an official said.
The protesters were seen beating their chests while shouting anti-US and anti-Israel slogans.
The restrictions were imposed as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order, officials said.
Concentrated wires and barricades have been placed at important intersections leading into the city.
Similar curbs have been imposed in Shia-dominated areas in other districts of the valley.
The restrictions came in the backdrop of a one-day strike call given by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, chairman of Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU).
"We urge the people to observe it with unity, dignity, and complete peacefulness," Mirwaiz said.
The MMU strike call was supported by several political parties, including opposition PDP president Mehbooba Mufti.
"We extend our full support and solidarity with the shutdown call of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq in remembrance of the martyrdom of Iran's Supreme Leader. This is a day of mourning to remind the world that injustice anywhere wounds the entire Muslim Ummah and all who stand for truth," Mufti said.
The authorities have also closed all educational institutions, including private schools, for two days, as a precautionary measure for the safety of students and to maintain law and order.
