India bars protests that support the Palestinians. Analysts say a pro-Israel shift helps at home

By AIJAZ HUSSAIN and SHEIKH SAALIQ
Associated Press

SRINAGAR, India (AP) — From Western capitals to Muslim states, protest rallies over the Israel-Hamas war have made headlines. But one place known for its vocal pro-Palestinian stance has been conspicuously quiet: Indian-controlled Kashmir. Indian authorities have barred any solidarity protest in Muslim-majority Kashmir and asked Muslim preachers not to mention the conflict in their sermons. The government-enforced silence comes as India walks a tightrope between the warring sides, with close ties to both. Analysts say the new restrictions on speech reflect a shift in India’s foreign policy under the populist Prime Minister Narendra Modi away from its long-held support for the Palestinians.