Srinagar: For the fifth consecutive day, large parts of the Kashmir Valley remained under strict security restrictions amid fears of protests following congregational Friday prayers over the killing of Iran’s Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Security measures continued in several sensitive areas of Srinagar, particularly around Lal Chowk and in a number of Shia-majority localities.
The road leading to Lal Chowk continued to remain sealed with barbed wire, preventing pedestrians as well as vehicular movement.
Police and CRPF personnel were deployed in large numbers in the area to enforce the restrictions.
Officials said the security measures have been tightened on Friday to prevent any untoward incident and ensure maintenance of law and order.
In Srinagar’s downtown areas strict curbs were also imposed.
The restrictions were imposed on Monday, a day after several parts of Kashmir witnessed massive protests following the killing of Iran’s Supreme leader in joint strikes by the United States and Israel.
Since Sunday, mobile internet services across the Valley have remained throttled. Postpaid mobile data has been reduced from 5G/4G/3G to 2G speed (not exceeding 128 Kbps), while internet services, text messages on prepaid mobile connections have been suspended.
Despite the restrictions over the last four days, several protests have been reported from some areas. Minor clashes between protesters and security forces were also reported, leaving several people injured, including some security personnel.
Authorities indicated that the restrictions could be reviewed after this evening depending on the ground situation.
“The situation is calm and moving toward normalcy. A decision regarding full restoration will be taken after a review later today,” an official said.
Educational institutions across the region remained closed as a precaution, with the government ordering schools to remain shut until March 7.
