The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued a cautionary advisory to all state governments, urging heightened vigilance against possible communal unrest in India amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following recent US and Israeli military strikes on Iran.
In a communication circulated on February 28, the MHA warned that the widening conflict could have “ripple effects” within the country, particularly through inflammatory speeches at religious gatherings or public events. The advisory asked states to closely monitor and identify individuals delivering provocative sermons that could incite unrest or aggravate communal sentiments during the sensitive period.
The Home Ministry stressed the need for strengthened intelligence-sharing, proactive preventive measures and close coordination among law enforcement agencies to ensure that law and order is not disrupted.
Meanwhile, mobile internet speeds have been curtailed across Kashmir as a precautionary step after protests erupted over the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a reported US-Israel airstrike in Tehran. Iranian state media confirmed his death on Sunday.
Officials said the decision to throttle internet services was taken to prevent the spread of misinformation and maintain public order amid heightened emotions. Demonstrations were reported from several parts of the Valley, including Lal Chowk and Saida Kadal in Srinagar, as well as Budgam, Bandipora, Anantnag and Pulwama.
Security forces have been deployed in sensitive areas to prevent escalation. Authorities said the restrictions on internet speed would remain under review based on the evolving situation.
The security alert comes as tensions rise in the Middle East following joint military operations targeting Iranian cities and military infrastructure, raising concerns of a broader regional conflict. India has called for restraint from all sides and reiterated the importance of safeguarding its citizens, including the large Indian diaspora in the Gulf region.
Officials in New Delhi are closely monitoring both the international developments and their potential domestic impact, amid concerns that external events could be exploited by extremist elements to trigger local unrest.
