Section of the Shia community in several parts of the country, including Kashmir, have protested against the killing of al-Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani in a United States airstrike at Baghdad airport in Tehran on Friday.
People protest against the killing of Qassem Soleimani in Magam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Friday. (AP)
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
In Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, soon after Friday prayers, the protesters took to the streets of Budgam and Magam areas in Budgam district.
{{^usCountry}}{{/usCountry}}
The protestors raised slogans against the US.
Shia leader, and former legislator from Budgam, Aga Roohullah called the killing a great loss to all those fighting terrorism.
“This killing exposes the colonial designs of America and it will gravely cost the security situation of the world. This act of America is akin to assisting IS,” he said.
Soleimani was instrumental in wiping out IS from Iraq and Syria, Roohullah added.
There is a considerable population of Shia Muslims in several towns of Kashmir, including Budgam, Pattan, Sonawari and Zadibal, where people have been organizing protests against attacks on Iran or its allies either by the US or Israel.
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
{{^usCountry}}
Similarly, in Ladakh’s Kargil region, the Shia population is in a majority and in the past there have been many demonstrations against both US and Israel.
{{/usCountry}}
{{#usCountry}}
Similarly, in Ladakh’s Kargil region, the Shia population is in a majority and in the past there have been many demonstrations against both US and Israel.
{{/usCountry}}
Fearing protests against Soleimani’s killing in these areas, officials have stepped up the vigil.
“The killing is a brazen act of terrorism and violation of sovereignty of a country by a state. Not only around the world but also in Kashmir people are mourning,” said Rashid Maqbool, a media researcher.
In Lucknow, too, Shia Muslims termed the killing a barbaric act even as clerics appealed to hold prayer meetings and offer special prayers for Soleimani.
Maulana Yasoob Abbas, spokesperson All India Shia Muslim Personal Law Board (AISMPLB) said, “I have appealed to the community people to pray for the departed souls and to offer special prayers for peace.”
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
S Mohammed Haider, a Shia Muslim and a corporate lawyer said the community strongly condemned the attack on the religious leader.
Other people from the community too condemned the act and said they will launch a symbolic protest.
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.
Get Latest News, breaking headlines, and top India News, and today real-time updates from across the nation. Stay informed on politics, government policies, crime, Today Weather, and major developments on Hindustan Times
Get Latest News, breaking headlines, and top India News, and today real-time updates from across the nation. Stay informed on politics, government policies, crime, Today Weather, and major developments on Hindustan Times
