Karnataka news: Karnataka’s Bengaluru police said on Thursday they have registered a case against individuals who allegedly organised and participated in a protest in the city, condemning the killing of the then Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. On Wednesday, Karnataka Home Minister said that the procession was unauthorised, as it was carried out without approval from the police.  [caption id="attachment_565" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Representative image[/caption]

Protest unfolded in Richmond Town

Shia Muslims in Bengaluru congregated in the Richmond Town area of Bengaluru on March 2, 2026, to mourn Khamenei’s demise and to stage a protest march. The state’s Home Minister said that while members of the community regarded Khamenei as a religious leader and expressed grief over his demise, the demonstration should have adhered to legal procedures. “They had not sought any permission for the procession and no approval was granted. Despite this, they proceeded,” Parameshwara said while addressing media-persons in Bengaluru. [caption id="attachment_569" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara[/caption]

Karnataka govt cites restrictions imposed by court

Minister Parameshwara underscored that the existing orders from the court prohibit the stating of processions in the city without due authorisation. He further emphasised that any such gathering, if granted approval, could be conducted at the Freedom Park instead.  He further said, “In the days ahead, we will not allow such processions. The government is strictly abiding by the court’s directives.”

Congress legislator allegedly participated in the march

Reportedly, a legislator attached to the Congress party had also participated in the protest. When the reporters sought Parameshwara’s version on this, he maintained that the rules would be followed uniformly. 

Khamenei was killed in airstrike in Tehran

[caption id="attachment_570" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Iran's former Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei[/caption] Notably, Khamenei was killed in an airstrike in Tehran following a joint military operation by Israel and the United States, triggering reactions in several Indian cities as well as overseas. Further investigation, according to officials, is underway into the Bengaluru incident.