Srinagar, March 23 Donations for war-torn Iran continued to pour in from across Kashmir for the second day on Monday, as people from all walks of life contributed money and valuables to support the effort.
Shia leader Imran Ansari urged authorities to allow the "collective act of faith and solidarity to continue with dignity" and without "any unnecessary pressure or questioning."
Donation drives were conducted in several areas of the city, including Zadibal, Hassanabad, Shalimar, Qamarwari, Lawaypora, and Bemina, officials said. People from the majority Sunni sect also participated.
Similar drives took place in Budgam, Bandipora, and Baramulla districts, especially in areas with a significant Shia population.
Cash, gold, silverware, and copper utensils were among the items donated as relief for war-hit Iran, officials said.
Women, in particular, contributed generously by donating gold jewelry, copper utensils, and other household items. Some families also offered livestock. Children donated their savings and pocket money.
One woman donated gold that she had kept as a memento of her husband, who died 28 years ago.
The Iranian Embassy in New Delhi described the gesture as the greatest source of comfort for the people of Iran.
"A respected woman from Kashmir donated the gold that she had kept as a memento of her husband who passed away 28 years ago, with a heart full of love and solidarity for the people of #Iran. Your tears and pure emotions are the greatest source of comfort for the people of Iran and will never be forgotten. Thank you #Kashmir. Thank you #India," the Iranian Embassy said on X. The contributions are expected to be channeled through official relief organizations, including the Iranian Embassy, officials said.
Meanwhile, Ansari, the president of the All J-K Shia Association, said, "The Kashmiri people, especially the Shia community, have massively come forward with deep faith and devotion, considering it their moral and religious duty to stand with Iran, a nation already facing sanctions and the hardships of war."
He expressed his concern over people associated with the drive receiving calls from authorities about the source of funds.
"At this sensitive moment, it is important to reassure everyone that these donations are purely for a humanitarian and religious cause, meant to support the people of Iran in their time of need. The emotions of the people are deeply involved, and any unnecessary pressure or questioning may hurt public sentiment," Ansari said.
