Chikkaballapur: Strong emotions and anger were witnessed in Alipura village of Gauribidanur taluk as Shia Muslims staged a protest and took out a procession condemning the reported killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The protest, organised under the leadership of the Anjuman-e-Jafaria Committee, saw large participation from the local community.
Hundreds of Shia Muslims gathered in the village and marched through the main streets, holding photographs of Khamenei and raising slogans against the United States. Protesters shouted anti-America slogans and expressed their anger over what they described as an attack on their religious leader. The procession moved peacefully under police supervision, while residents watched in silence.
An undeclared bandh was observed in the village, with shops and commercial establishments remaining closed as a mark of mourning and protest. The atmosphere in Alipura remained tense but peaceful, with religious leaders urging people to maintain calm.
“Khamenei was a spiritual guide and a respected leader for Shia Muslims across the world. His killing has caused deep pain and anger among us,” said a protest participant. “We have taken out this procession to express our condemnation and register our protest.”
Alipura, often referred to as the “Baby Iran” of Karnataka, shares deep religious ties with Iran. Khamenei had visited the village in 1986, and his visit is still remembered by residents as a historic moment. During that visit, he inaugurated a hospital named after Iran’s revolutionary leader Ruhollah Khomeini, strengthening the village’s spiritual connection with Iran.
Many families in Alipura have relatives and students in Iran pursuing religious and medical education. Residents said Iran holds immense religious significance, and its leaders are held in high regard.
“We grew up hearing about Khamenei and his teachings. His visit made our village known internationally,” said a village elder. “Today, people are grieving as if they have lost a member of their own family.”
Police personnel were deployed across the village to ensure law and order during the procession. Officials confirmed that the protest remained peaceful and under control.
