Peaceful mourning protests held across several states; community leaders stress non-violence and dignity
NEW DELHI — The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has directed all states and Union Territories to remain alert and monitor individuals delivering provocative speeches in support of Iran. This follows massive protests across India over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in the joint US-Israeli airstrike on Tehran.
In a circular, the ministry warned that international developments could influence local sentiments and lead to law and order challenges. The advisory specifically referred to “Iran-favouring radical preachers” and asked state authorities to keep watch on sermons or gatherings that could disturb public peace.
A senior official in the Narendra Modi government said the instruction was precautionary in nature. “The intention is not to curb peaceful expression. The focus is on preventing any speech that could incite violence or hatred. States have been asked to act in a balanced manner,” the official said.
The ministry also directed heightened security around US and Israeli embassies and consulates, as well as other institutions linked to those countries. In Delhi, police have stepped up security near diplomatic areas and sensitive locations. Officials confirmed that security has also been reviewed around the Iranian mission in the capital.
Police sources said that visible deployment is meant to deter any untoward incident. “We are prepared, but we also appeal to people to maintain calm,” a Delhi Police officer stated.
The death of Ayatollah Khamenei has led to grief among sections of India’s Shiite community. Many see him as a religious authority and a figure who spoke against global injustice.
In Jammu and Kashmir, large mourning gatherings were reported in Srinagar, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama. Authorities temporarily slowed mobile internet services in some districts as a precaution.
A local official said, “This step was taken only to prevent rumours and maintain peace. The protests were largely peaceful.”
In Srinagar, a Shiite cleric, addressing a gathering, said, “We are expressing sorrow for a leader we respected. Our religion teaches us patience and dignity. We do not support violence.”
In Delhi, members of the Shiite community held a silent march, carrying black flags and portraits of the late Iranian leader. One participant said, “Ayatollah Khamenei stood for oppressed people, especially Palestinians. His killing has deeply hurt us. But our protest is peaceful and within the law.”
Similar protests were reported from parts of Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh. In Lucknow, which has a significant Shia population, community leaders urged restraint.
A senior cleric in Lucknow said, “Our message is clear: we condemn the killing, but we also believe in peace. We request the government not to view our grief with suspicion. Indian Muslims are loyal citizens of this country.”
Some Muslim organisations have expressed concern that the advisory could lead to unfair targeting of religious scholars. A representative of a Shia body in Delhi said, “Monitoring should not become harassment. The community is already under emotional stress. We expect the authorities to act fairly.”
He added, “Indian Shia Muslims have always followed the law. We are mourning a religious leader, not calling for unrest.”
Community leaders have also appealed on social media for restraint. “Do not fall into provocation. Maintain peace and unity,” read a statement issued by a Shia youth organisation in Kashmir.
The Centre has appealed to all sections of society to maintain harmony in view of the sensitive situation in West Asia. Officials said intelligence agencies are keeping a watch on online content that could inflame tensions.
So far, there have been no major incidents of violence linked to the protests. Police officials in multiple states confirmed that gatherings remained under control and dispersed peacefully.
Observers note that India has a long history of religious diversity and that global political events often evoke emotional responses among communities with cultural or religious ties abroad. However, law enforcement agencies remain cautious about any speech that could disturb communal harmony.
As tensions continue in the Middle East, Indian authorities appear focused on preventing any spillover at home, while many Shiites across the country continue to express grief in what they describe as lawful and peaceful ways.
