Internet speeds slowed in Kashmir following protests over Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei killing

SRINAGAR: Mobile internet speeds were throttled across Kashmir on Monday following spontaneous protests against the killing of Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, PTI reported. The step was taken as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order in the area, officials said. Khamenei was killed in an airstrike in Tehran on Saturday during a joint Israel-US attack on Iran. Iranian state media confirmed the same on Sunday, triggering a wave of protests and mourning across the world, including India. Kashmir — which has about 15 lakh Shias — witnessed major protests at Lal Chowk, Saida Kadal, Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama, an official said. The protesters were seen beating their chests as they shouted anti-US and anti-Israel slogans.

Officials said high-speed mobile internet has been throttled, with network speeds curtailed across all mobile networks in the Kashmir valley. Meanwhile, police have issued an advisory urging all media organisations and news platforms to exercise the highest level of responsibility and professionalism in their reporting. "Please refrain from publishing unverified information, speculation, or rumours; ensure that all reports are confirmed through credible and authoritative sources before dissemination; and avoid sensational headlines that may create unnecessary panic," the advisory read. The police said responsible and accurate reporting is essential to maintain public trust and prevent misinformation.