Lucknow Shia Community Extends Demonstrations for Second Day Over Reported Killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader
Protests by members of the Shia community in Lucknow persisted for a second consecutive day on Monday following reports of the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in an alleged strike carried out by US and Israeli forces.
Commercial establishments surrounding the Chhota and Bara Imambara remained shuttered, mirroring the continued shutdown observed a day earlier.
As evening approached, gatherings were held after a religious assembly (majlis) in the Hussainabad locality of the old city, where participants voiced their anguish and condemnation.
Maulana Mohammad Mirza Yasoob Abbas, a prominent cleric associated with the All India Shia Personal Law Board and the India Islamic Culture Centre, stated that a commemorative majlis had been convened and announced plans to burn an effigy of US President Donald Trump in the Hussainabad area as a mark of protest.
Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai visited Shia-majority neighbourhoods in old Lucknow to offer tributes to Ayatollah Khamenei. During his visit, he met senior cleric Maulana Kalbe Jawwad and conveyed his sympathies.
Addressing the gathering, Rai described Khamenei as a leader who embraced bravery rather than capitulation, asserting that his death warranted honour and remembrance.
He also aimed at the Narendra Modi-led Central government, criticising what he termed its silence on the matter and questioning the country’s ethical and civilisational commitments.
Rai further remarked that India and Iran share deep-rooted historical and cultural connections, which he alleged have suffered under the present BJP-led administration in favour of narrow interests.
Expressing solidarity, the UP Congress chief extended condolences to the people of Iran and to Shia communities worldwide.
Meanwhile, Maulana Abbas affirmed that demonstrations and mourning observances would continue on Tuesday, with businesses in the affected areas expected to remain closed.
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