Wed Jul 02 18:36:50 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewrite as a news article:
**Summary:**
The Jammu and Kashmir Police have issued a warning against sharing social media content related to the removal of a Shia religious banner in Srinagar. The banner, which contained images of Hezbollah commander Hassan Nasrullah and Iranian spiritual leader Ali Khamenei, was removed by police, sparking protests from the Shia community. The police claim the content could disturb public order. Shia clerics and political leaders have condemned the police action as an abuse of authority and a disrespect of their religious beliefs.
**News Article:**
**Srinagar, July 2, 2025 – Police Warn Against Sharing Content Following Removal of Shia Banner**
The Jammu and Kashmir Police are threatening legal action against individuals sharing content related to the controversial removal of a religious banner in Srinagar. The banner, which depicted images of deceased Hezbollah commander Hassan Nasrullah and Iranian spiritual leader Ali Khamenei, was removed by police on Wednesday, triggering protests from the local Shia community.
According to a police spokesperson, the shared content has the potential to “disturb public order and harmony.” The police are urging social media users to delete any such content and refrain from sharing similar material, warning of strict legal repercussions for non-compliance.
The incident occurred in the Saida Kadal area of Srinagar, where the banner had been erected in preparation for a Muharram procession. Locals allege that a police officer removed the banner, which they say featured revered Shia figures.
The police action has drawn sharp criticism from Shia leaders. Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and cleric Muntazir Mehdi condemned the removal as a “serious overreach” and an “abuse of authority” that undermines the religious practices of Muslims. Aga Mujtaba, another Shia cleric, echoed these sentiments, describing the incident as a “blatant abuse of authority” that “deeply hurts the Shia community’s sentiments.” He called on the Director-General of Police (DGP) to hold the responsible officers accountable and prevent future incidents.
The incident highlights the ongoing sensitivities surrounding religious expression and law enforcement in Jammu and Kashmir.