Srinagar, March 1 (NationPress) - In light of ongoing protests following the assassination of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, all educational institutions in the Kashmir Valley—including schools, colleges, and universities—will be closed for a duration of two days starting Monday. This directive was issued by the J&K Lt Governor, Manoj Sinha, who urged the community to maintain peace and tranquility.

As demonstrations unfolded across the Valley on Sunday, authorities decided to suspend educational activities on March 2 and 3. Protests occurred in various locations, including the bustling city center of Lal Chowk in Srinagar, where citizens gathered to express their views peacefully.

Director General of Police, Nalin Prabhat, along with senior police officials, monitored the security measures at Lal Chowk and other spots to prevent any exploitation of public sentiment by disruptive elements.

In a post on X, LG Sinha emphasized the importance of community harmony: "I convened a meeting to assess the security situation throughout the J&K Union Territory. I urge all communities to uphold peace and calm. I commend the steadfast commitment of our police and security forces in maintaining law and order."

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his deep concern regarding the recent events in Iran, stating, "I urge all communities to stay calm and promote peace, avoiding any actions that might escalate tensions. We must allow those mourning in Jammu and Kashmir to do so peacefully. The police and administration need to exercise maximum restraint and avoid forceful measures," he posted on X.

The Government of Jammu & Kashmir is closely coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs of India to ensure the safety of J&K residents, including students currently in Iran.

National Conference (NC) President and former Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah, along with party leaders, condemned the US-Israeli operation against Iran. "Dr. Farooq Abdullah, alongside Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq and Senior Leader Agha Syed Mehmood Al-Moosavi, expressed deep sorrow over the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, labeling it a tragic event with serious ramifications for regional stability," stated the NC on their X handle.

He emphasized that such occurrences only deepen uncertainty and grief, calling for wisdom, restraint, and adherence to justice and international law principles.

Dr. Abdullah called for calm and urged the administration to deal with the situation sensitively, ensuring the rights of those wishing to mourn are respected without fear or undue restrictions while maintaining public order.

Meanwhile, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti described the incident as a tragic moment in history, criticizing the US and Israel for their roles in the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. She lamented the support given by some Muslim nations that prioritized convenience over conscience.

“History will bear witness to those who fought for justice and those who allied with oppressors. My prayers are with the people of Iran. May Allah grant them strength and victory over tyranny and injustice,” she remarked.

Kashmir's chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, expressed his dismay over the brutal killing of Ayatollah Syed Ali Khamenei, calling it an act that has shaken the Muslim community. He stated, "The people of J&K collectively condemn this violence and the aggression against Iran, including the tragic events involving innocent students in Minab."

He urged the Ummah to unite in their protest against the killings and ongoing hostilities in the region.

The Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulama (MMU) has called for a complete strike tomorrow, urging the public to observe it with dignity and unity.

The Mirwaiz has also appealed for peace as communities express their sentiments regarding the US-Israeli actions against Iran.

Despite it being a public holiday, the impact of public sentiment was evident, with all commercial activities coming to a halt. Security forces remain on high alert throughout the Valley as protests continue, with demonstrators chanting anti-US and anti-Israel slogans.

No significant incidents were reported across the Valley on Sunday.