Following the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in the US-Israel military strikes on March 1, 2026, India has been placed on a high security alert. The Home Ministry has issued strict directives to all state governments, intelligence agencies, and central police organizations.
In a high-level security briefing, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) instructed all states to maintain strict vigilance over both pro-Iran and anti-Iran groups operating in India, warning of potential protests, violent incidents, or communal flare-ups.
CCS Emergency Meeting:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired an emergency meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to assess the situation. The meeting was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, and chiefs of all three armed forces.
Following the meeting, PM Modi stated: “India stands for peace and will work with all nations to protect the safety of our citizens.”
Security Measures Taken:
- Heightened security at mosques and religious sites in sensitive areas
- Police on high alert in cities with significant Shia Muslim populations including Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Mumbai
- Preventive security measures at Iranian embassy and diplomatic missions
- Coast Guard and Navy on high alert in the Arabian Sea
- Anti-drone systems activated at major airports
Protest Concerns:
Intelligence agencies have warned of potential protests in several Indian cities following Khamenei’s death. The Uttar Pradesh government has invoked preventive detention laws in sensitive districts, while Jammu & Kashmir has imposed restrictions on internet services in certain areas.
India-Iran Relations:
India has historically maintained warm ties with Iran, particularly in energy trade and connectivity projects like the Chabahar port. The killing of Khamenei complicates India’s position as it tries to balance its strategic relationship with the US and Israel while protecting its interests in Iran.
PM Modi has spoken with both UAE President MBZ and Israeli PM Netanyahu to express concern about the situation and ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the conflict zone.