SAS Geelani was a founder member of Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir before founding Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, his own political organization.
SRINAGAR — Syed Ali Shah Geelani, the Chairman of the Hurriyat Conference (G), died on Wednesday night at his home in Hyderpora area of J-K’s Srinagar city.
For a long period, the 92-year-old senior Hurriyat Conference leader was not feeling well.
Security situation beefed up in the valley
Meanwhile, in the aftermath of Geelani’s death, the security apparatus has decided to make exhaustive measures.
IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar told media persons that restrictions have been enforced, including the suspension of internet services in the Valley.
Security forces, including J-K Police and CRPF personnel, were seen at check-points, while asking people to stay home and not venture out unnecessarily.
Politicians condole Syed Ali Shah Geelani’s demise
Meanwhile, prominent political figures including as Mehbooba Mufti and Sajad Lone have conveyed their condolences.
“Saddened by the news of Geelani sahab’s passing away. We may not have agreed on most things but I respect him for his steadfastness & standing by his beliefs. May Allah Ta’aala grant him jannat & condolences to his family & well wishers,” Mehbooba Mufti tweeted.
Sajad Gani Lone tweeted, “Heartfelt condolences to the family of Syed Ali Shah Geelani Sahib. Was an esteemed colleague of my late father. May Allah grant him Jannat.”
Pakistan to mark national day of mourning
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan also expressed his ‘deep sadness’ at Geelani’s demise.
The premier recalled Geelani’s activism, saying he had fought for his people and their ‘right to self-determination’ his whole life.
“The Pakistan flag will fly at half-mast and we will observe a day of official mourning,” the premier announced.
It is in place to mention that last year, President Dr. Arif Alvi awarded Geelani the Nishan-i-Pakistan, Pakistan’s highest civil honour, in appreciation of his decades-long struggle for Kashmiris’ ‘right to self-determination’.
The politics of Syed Ali Shah Geelani
Syed Ali Shah Geelani was an MLA from the Sopore constituency before becoming a fierce separatist politician. He was elected in 1972. In 1977 and 1987, he was elected to the Assembly from the same district.
SAS Geelani was a founding member of Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir before forming his own political party, Tehreek-e-Hurriyat.
On July 31, 1993, he was elected Chairman of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, a conglomeration of several separatist parties.
The Hurriyat Conference disintegrated in September 2003 over issues such as future plans, the role of militancy, and dialogue. Tehreek-e-Hurriyat was founded as a result of this. He, however, quit the Hurriyat in June 2020.
