Khamenei killing sparks Shia outrage in India; tensions rise in J&K and Lucknow

Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death has sparked protests in several parts of India. Members of the Shia community in Lucknow and Jammu and Kashmir held mourning marches on Sunday morning following the confirmation of the death in the US-Israel strike. 

Protesters took to the streets in large numbers to condemn the US and Israel for the killing of Ayatollah Khamenei. Demonstrators raised slogans against 'the oppression of innocents,' with many vowing that the leader's legacy would live on through a new generation of followers,

In Alipur, a village in Bengaluru, a three-day mourning was declared. Many demonstrators were seen clutching portraits of the Supreme Leader, with several overcome by emotion and in tears. An unofficial shutdown took hold across Alipura as shopkeepers and business owners voluntarily closed their doors in solidarity. 

Speaking to ANI,  India's Shia community leader Syed Samar Kazmi said that the Supreme Leader was "killed because he raised his voice for the killings in Palestine while the world was silent."

In Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow, mourners also held a protest march. “They (US) kept deceiving with talks and threatened about war, but our leader did not get afraid and did not bow... A thousand Khameneis will rise, and this war will continue... Trump cannot win easily," a protester was quoted by ANI. 

Jammu and Kashmir's Shia association has also issued a statement of mourning. Protesters marched through the streets shouting anti-US and anti-Israel slogans. 

Protests were held at Lal Chowk, Saida Kadal, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama areas of the valley, the officials said.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the chief priest of Kashmir, said he was deeply saddened and outraged at Khamenei's killing.

"Deeply saddened and outraged at the brutal killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei, by the US and Israel, which has shaken the Muslim world. The people of JK collectively condemn this brutality and the ongoing aggression against Iran, as well as the massacre of innocent girl students in Minab," the Mirwaiz said in a post on X.

The religious leaders said this is a moment for the Muslims to rise above divisions and stand united and "register our protest and solidarity against this killing and the continued aggression in the region".

Amid tensions in the area, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah appealed for calm. "I'm deeply concerned about the unfolding developments in Iran, including the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader. I appeal to all communities to remain calm, uphold peace, and avoid any actions that could lead to tension or unrest," said Abdullah. 

The district police officials were directed to keep a close watch on the emerging situation and ensure peace.