Internet services slowed in parts of Kashmir on Sunday as thousands of people took to the streets following reports of the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israel strike.
The disruption in internet speed was reported from several areas of the Valley amid ongoing protests. Many users complained on social media that access to mobile data had been reduced.
One user wrote online, “Everything is temporary, but reducing internet services in Kashmir whenever anything happens is permanent.”
A journalist based in Kashmir posted on X, “Internet speeds slow down in parts of Kashmir, users report disruptions.” Another user, @rishavmahajan17, wrote, “Calling not working in Srinagar Airport.”
There was no immediate official confirmation about a formal internet shutdown, but users across Srinagar and other districts reported slow connectivity.
Police Issue Advisory Against Rumours
Amid the protests and online claims, Baramulla Police issued an advisory urging citizens and media organisations to verify all information related to law and order from official sources.
In a statement, the police said, “Baramulla Police issues advisory urging media and citizens to verify all law and order related information from official sources. Avoid rumours and sensational content. Misinformation will invite legal action. Let us work together to maintain peace and harmony.”
Senior police officers, including Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat and Inspector General of Police Kashmir Vidhi Kumar Birdi, were present on the ground in different parts of the Valley to monitor the situation as demonstrations continued.
Thousands Protest Across the Valley
Massive protests were reported from Srinagar, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag, Pulwama and Baramulla districts. Demonstrations were also held at Lal Chowk and Saida Kadal in Srinagar.
Shia majority areas witnessed peaceful mourning marches, with people raising slogans and expressing solidarity with Iran. Protesters condemned the US-Israel strike that killed Khamenei and described him as a spiritual leader of the Muslim world.
Religious and political leaders also reacted strongly to the development.
Mirwaiz Expresses Grief and Calls for Strike
Chief priest of Kashmir, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, said he was deeply saddened and outraged over the killing.
In a post on X, he said, “Deeply saddened and outraged at the brutal killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei by the US and Israel that has shaken the Muslim world. The people of JK collectively condemn this brutality and the ongoing aggression against Iran, as well as the massacre of innocent girl students in Minab.”
He added, “In this hour of immense sorrow, our hearts beat with the resilient people of Iran. May Allah grant strength to the oppressed, elevate the martyrs, and bring swift justice to those responsible for this.”
Mirwaiz said this was a moment for Muslims to rise above divisions and stand united to register protest and solidarity against the killing and the continued aggression in the region.
The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulama, an amalgam of religious organisations, called for a complete strike on Monday. “We urge the people to observe it with unity, dignity and complete peacefulness,” he said.
Other Leaders Condemn Killing
Mohammad Maqbool of Jamiat Ahli Hadith also condemned the killing and expressed solidarity with the people of Iran.
Officials said that despite large gatherings, the protests remained largely peaceful throughout the day. Security forces were deployed in sensitive areas to prevent any untoward incident.
There are around 15 lakh Shias in the Kashmir Valley, and many see Khamenei as a significant religious figure. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as demonstrations and calls for strike unfold across the region.
