After the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, a video surfaced showing Samajwadi Party legislator Nawab Iqbal Mahmood crying in a mosque in Sambhal. He expressed his sorrow during prayers for the deceased and condemned the silence of the Indian government, particularly targeting Prime Minister Modi's lack of comment on the matter. Iqbal's emotional outburst reflects not only personal anguish but also a political critique of the central government's foreign policy regarding Middle Eastern affairs.

Iqbal Mahmood articulated that the Prime Minister, who aspires for India to become a 'Vishwaguru' or global leader, has failed to address significant international events affecting India's relations and its citizens abroad. He emphasized that the government’s inaction could adversely impact nearly one crore Indians working in the Middle East, a region that has historically shown strong ties and support towards India.

Moreover, in Sambhal district, a contrasting event took place on March 5, where members of the Sanatan Seva Sangh conducted special rituals at a local temple, showcasing a different sentiment within the community. This juxtaposition of reactions to the death of Khamenei reflects the complex socio-political landscape in India, where various factions respond distinctly to international events, raising questions about the future of India's diplomatic engagements and internal cohesion.