Police have foiled attempts to disturb public order during Muharram processions in Kashmir, even as the Shia leader and ruling National Conference MP, Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, blamed the police for filing FIRs against Gaza supporters.
Ruhulla, who has earlier condemned Israel for the attack on Iran, has in the past also spoken against the country’s actions in Palestine, describing the people of Gaza as “oppressed people.”
“Are you serving us Kashmiris or enforcing the will of a Zionist regime? If you're serving us, then explain: Under what law are you filing FIRs against the peaceful expression of support to Gaza? We await your answer,” Ruhulla said in a post on X, while seeking answers from police over action during the Muharram processions.
However, earlier police said that they foiled attempts to disturb law and order during Muharram processions in Srinagar.
According to police, “in violation of laid-down conditions, certain individuals” committed deliberate and unlawful acts during the Muharram procession on the MA Road, which is one of the routes used by Shia mourners to pay tribute to Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala.
“These actions were intended to provoke unrest, disturb public order, and disrupt communal harmony, posing a serious threat to the security and integrity of the nation. Accordingly, legal action has been initiated, and FIR No. 41/2025 under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been registered at Police Station Kothibagh. The accused have been identified, and legal proceedings are underway,” police said.
“Srinagar Police reiterates its commitment to maintaining peace and will continue to take firm action against any attempts to destabilise public harmony through subversive or provocative activities,” police said.
Muharram processions were taken out in Srinagar as well as Shia-dominated areas of Budgam.
Several Shia leaders have cautioned authorities against registering FIRs or arresting youth participating in Muharram processions while some said mourners are being directed to report at the concerned Police Stations which is deeply disturbing.
Authorities have granted permission for the 10th Muharram Ashura procession with the condition that during the procession, people will not indulge in “anti-national, anti-administration, or sectarian slogans or speeches” and any activity that disturbs “communal, religious, or ethnic harmony” will be dealt with strictly.
The Police have also warned against waving the flags of organisations which "are banned nationally or internationally."
