Life in the Kashmir Valley returned to normal on Saturday as authorities lifted week-long security restrictions and communication curbs that had been imposed following protests over the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.
Shops and business establishments reopened across the region, while public transport resumed operations. Curbs on internet services and prepaid mobile telephony were also withdrawn. In Srinagar, the iconic Lal Chowk once again saw crowds after being sealed off with tin fencing and concertina wire for several days — marking the first time in six years such barricades were deployed at the city centre to prevent gatherings.
The decision to ease restrictions came after largely peaceful Friday prayers across most of the valley. Apart from brief demonstrations in the Shia-majority town of Budgam, no major incidents were reported. However, the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar remained closed for Friday prayers, and its head priest, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, was placed under house arrest, which he described as “unfortunate.”
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The shutdown was triggered by Khamenei’s death in a US-Israel bombing, which sparked grief and anger among the region’s Shia Muslim community. Initial mourning processions were peaceful, but tensions escalated on Monday when protesters marching toward Lal Chowk were intercepted by security forces. Clashes followed, with demonstrators reportedly pelting stones and police responding with tear gas and batons.
Authorities have since arrested dozens of suspects in connection with the unrest, invoking strict laws including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Several local groups and leaders have called for the immediate release of those detained.
Officials said the lifting of restrictions reflects the administration’s assessment that the situation has largely stabilized, and normal civic life can safely resume while security monitoring continues across the valley.
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