SRINAGAR — Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and across the globe are observing the fifth death anniversary of veteran Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Geelani on Tuesday. The senior political figure died on September 1, 2021, at his residence in Srinagar, where he had been kept under continuous house arrest for more than a decade.
Throughout his life, Syed Ali Geelani championed the right to self-determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He consistently advocated for the settlement of the Kashmir dispute in line with United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people, according to Kashmir Media Service.
President Zardari Pays Tribute to Geelani’s Legacy
President Asif Ali Zardari has paid tribute to Syed Ali Shah Geelani on his fifth death anniversary, stating that his legacy of courage, dignity, and steadfastness will continue to guide generations committed to justice and freedom.
“On this solemn occasion, we honour the memory of Syed Ali Shah Geelani and pay tribute to his sacrifices, as well as to the countless sacrifices rendered by the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir,” the president said in his message.
Zardari described Geelani as a towering Kashmiri leader whose life was defined by courage, steadfastness, and firm commitment to the right of the Kashmiri people to self-determination. He noted that despite prolonged imprisonment, house arrest, and immense personal hardships, Geelani remained firm in his convictions and resolute in his commitment to justice, dignity, and freedom.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Acknowledges Geelani’s Struggle
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif also paid glowing tribute to the veteran Kashmiri leader and founding leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC). In his message, the prime minister acknowledged Geelani’s courageous leadership, unwavering commitment to the Kashmir cause, and profound love for Pakistan.
Sharif stated that Syed Ali Shah Geelani devoted his entire life to safeguarding the fundamental human rights and aspirations of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, securing their political future, and advancing the objective of accession to Pakistan.
“Geelani’s selfless and unparalleled struggle despite adverse circumstances and relentless state repression kept the Kashmir cause alive in the hearts and minds of the Kashmiri people,” the prime minister said.
A Life of Resistance and Political Conviction
Syed Ali Geelani remained a central figure in Kashmiri politics for decades. His firm stance on the right to self-determination and his refusal to compromise on core political principles made him a respected yet controversial leader. Even under house arrest, his influence continued to shape political discourse in the region.
The fifth anniversary of his death is being marked by gatherings, prayers, and tributes from Kashmiri communities in various parts of the world. His supporters view him as a symbol of resistance, while his critics point to the complex and often violent history of the Kashmir conflict.
Geelani’s political journey spanned multiple movements and organizations, and his death left a significant void in the Hurriyat leadership. Observers note that his legacy remains contested, reflecting the broader unresolved nature of the Kashmir dispute.
