Shia Muslims across India mourn Iran leader Khamenei's death; raise slogans against US, Israel
New Delhi, March 1
Large-scale mourning gatherings and protests erupted across the country following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, with Shia communities taking to the streets to express grief and anger.
All India Shia Council held a protest at Jantar Mantar in Delhi against the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, raising slogans against the US and Israel.
Similar protests were also seen in Jammu and Kashmir, where men, women and children gathered outside and condemned the US and Israel attack.
Protests were also held outside the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) headquarters in Srinagar
The protests were peaceful, with participants carrying pictures of Khamenei and banners supporting Iran. Black flags, portraits of the Ayatollah, and traditional mourning chants (Nauha) were witnessed on the streets of Srinagar.
Large numbers of people across the old Lucknow took to the streets in the Uttar Pradesh capital to protest as well.
All India Shia Majalis-E-Ulema-Wa- Zakireen, Nisar Hussain Hyder Agha condemned the US and Israel attack.
"We came to know about the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei afetr attack on Iran dropping over 30 bombs. We condemn this act. Protests are happening all over the world against this attack," he said.
Meanwhile, protest in Pakistan turned violent in some areas. Thousands reportedly gathered in Skardu, where the United Nations office was set on fire. In Karachi, angry demonstrators stormed the US consulate, leading to clashes with Pakistani security forces. Reports indicated that more than 10 people were killed after soldiers opened fire on protesters outside the consulate.
Pakistani forces were seen confronting demonstrators amid heightened tensions following what protesters described as US and Israeli aggression, according to Press TV.
The wave of protests and mourning reflected the deep religious and political resonance of Khamenei's leadership among Shia communities worldwide, with gatherings spanning from Iran and Iraq to South Asia.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Very sad to hear about the violence in Pakistan. Glad to read the protests in India remained peaceful. We have a strong tradition of communal harmony here, and it's good to see people expressing their grief without letting it turn violent. Thoughts with all those affected.
While people have a right to mourn, raising slogans against other nations on Indian soil doesn't sit right with me. We are Indians first. Our foreign policy is decided by our government, not by protests in the streets. Let's focus on our country's progress.
The article shows how connected global communities are. The mourning in Lucknow and Srinagar reflects deep religious ties. However, the contrast with the violent protests in Pakistan is stark and shows the importance of maintaining law and order.
This is a complex issue. As a secular democracy, India allows all communities to express themselves. But we must be vigilant that external conflicts are not imported here. Our security agencies are doing a good job in managing the situation. Jai Hind.
Heart goes out to those mourning a religious leader. The scenes of traditional 'Nauha' chants in Srinagar are a part of our diverse cultural fabric. However, the targeting of UN offices elsewhere is unacceptable. Peaceful expression is the only way.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.