Srinagar: Curfew-like restrictions continued for the fourth consecutive day across Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday as Indian authorities enforced strict curbs to prevent protests following the martyrdom of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israel strike in Tehran.
According to Kashmir Media Service, heavy contingents of Indian Army and paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force personnel remained deployed across Srinagar, Baramulla, Bandipora, Budgam, Pulwama and other districts of the Kashmir Valley. Major roads and intersections were sealed with barricades and concertina wire, while armoured vehicles patrolled several civilian areas, creating an atmosphere of fear and tension among residents.
Srinagar’s main commercial hub, Lal Chowk, remained completely barricaded with barbed wire as authorities blocked pedestrian movement along key routes, including the Amir Kadal stretch. Restrictions were also reported from other areas of the Valley, where public movement remained tightly controlled.
Despite the restrictions, protests were reported from different parts of the Valley. Witnesses said Indian troops resorted to force to disperse demonstrators, firing teargas shells and baton charging protesters in Srinagar, Baramulla, Bandipora and other areas. Dozens of people were injured during the clashes.
Internet restrictions and communication curbs also continued in the territory, while authorities maintained tight control over media and social media platforms. The clampdown on media outlets and restrictions on digital spaces have raised fresh concerns over press freedom and the free flow of information in the occupied territory.
Officials said the curbs would remain in place as a precautionary measure to prevent further protests. The administration claimed the decision was taken to maintain public order and that the situation was being closely monitored.
