Poonch, Mar 3,: A complete shutdown was observed across Mendhar town and several adjoining areas of the Pir Panjal region on Tuesday following reports about the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The strike call was jointly given by Beopar Mandal Mendhar along with members of both Hindu and Muslim communities, reflecting a rare show of unity across religious lines.
All shops, commercial establishments, and business outlets in Mendhar town remained closed throughout the day. Traffic movement was largely off the roads, with only essential services operating in limited capacity. Locals reported that the shutdown was total in the main market areas and adjoining localities.
The call for protest was endorsed by traders and community representatives who stated that the shutdown was meant to express solidarity and register concern over the reported killing of the Iranian leader. The decision was taken collectively by representatives of Beopar Mandal and community elders from different faiths in the region.
Authorities deployed additional police personnel in sensitive pockets of Mendhar and other parts of Poonch to ensure law and order. Officials confirmed that the situation remained peaceful and under control throughout the day. No untoward incident was reported from any part of the subdivision. [KNT]
