Srinagar erupted in fury on Sunday following reports of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s death amid escalating conflict with Israel. Massive protests swept through the Kashmir valley, prompting authorities to postpone key examinations amid the unrest.
The Jammu and Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) announced the suspension of the OMR-based written exam for Laboratory Attendant posts in the Home Department, originally scheduled for the day. ‘This is to inform all concerned candidates that the OMR-based written examination for the post of Laboratory Attendant (Home Department) under Advertisement Notification No. 22 of 2025 dated July 22, 2025, scheduled for today, Sunday, stands postponed. The new date will be notified separately,’ read the official notification.
No specific reason was cited for the postponement, but the timing coincides with widespread demonstrations by Kashmiri Shia Muslims. Throngs gathered in Srinagar, marching to Lal Chowk to voice their outrage over Khamenei’s demise, which they attribute to Israeli aggression.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed deep concern over the Middle East tensions. In a post on X, his office stated, ‘The Chief Minister has expressed profound worry over the events in Iran, including the reported death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He appeals to all communities to maintain peace, exercise restraint, and avoid actions that could lead to tension or unrest.’
The government is coordinating with India’s Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safety of J&K residents, including students, currently in Iran. Meanwhile, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti condemned the incident, slamming Israel and the US for ‘celebrating’ the loss. She criticized Muslim nations for their silence, saying, ‘History will judge who stood for justice and who aided oppressors. Our prayers are with the people of Iran.’
As the valley simmers, security forces remain on high alert, with calls for calm echoing from leaders across the spectrum. The postponement underscores the ripple effects of global conflicts on local stability in this sensitive region.