Srinagar, September 1, 2024 — Today marks the third anniversary of Syed Ali Geelani’s death, with special events taking place on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC) to honor the prominent Kashmiri leader.
Syed Ali Geelani, born on September 29, 1929, in Zarmunz, Bandipore, dedicated his life to the cause of Kashmiri independence. He played a key role in founding organizations like the All Parties Hurriyat Conference and the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, and was elected to the assembly three times.
Geelani spent more than 20 years in Indian prisons and was under house arrest for 11 years before he died. Despite these challenges, he continued to push for Kashmiri self-determination. His autobiography, “Roodad Qafas,” was written while he was in prison.
He died on September 1, 2021, in Hyderpora, Srinagar. After his death, a curfew was imposed in Kashmir, and media and internet services were suspended. He was buried wrapped in the Pakistani flag, and a special prayer service was held in Pakistan’s National Assembly, where the national flag was lowered in his honor.
Today’s events include rallies, processions, and seminars to remember Geelani and his work. The Pakistani government also honored him with the Nishan-e-Pakistan award on Pakistan’s 73rd Independence Day, recognizing his significant impact on the Kashmiri freedom movement.
