PESHAWAR: On the third anniversary of Syed Ali Geelani’s death, tributes have poured in for the iconic Kashmiri leader who steadfastly advocated for the freedom of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Geelani, a symbol of resistance against Indian occupation, devoted his life to challenging over seven decades of repression, state terrorism, and human rights abuses inflicted by Indian forces.
Geelani’s enduring legacy is encapsulated in his famous assertion, “We are Kashmiris, and Pakistan is our country,” which continues to inspire the people of Kashmir. His dedication to the Kashmiri cause was marked by his unwavering stand against systemic oppression, despite facing severe personal threats and being under constant surveillance. His resilience was demonstrated through his commitment to peaceful resistance and his efforts to keep the struggle for self-determination alive, even as he spent much of his life under house arrest.
On his death anniversary, people across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Kashmir held memorials and recited the Quran in his honor. Prof. Dr. Ejaz Khan of the University of Peshawar highlighted Geelani’s unparalleled bravery and his relentless advocacy for the Kashmiri people’s rights. Geelani’s actions exposed the harsh realities of Indian rule in IIOJK, including the use of pellet guns, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings. His commitment to highlighting these issues made him a powerful voice against the injustices faced by Kashmiris.
The aftermath of Geelani’s death revealed the extent of Indian oppression, with reports indicating that his body was hastily buried without the presence of his family and loved ones, further symbolizing the disregard for Kashmiri sentiments. His final moments underscored the ongoing struggle and the harsh conditions imposed by Indian authorities.
Hussain Khateeb, from the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (Geelani Group), emphasized Geelani’s role in exposing state terrorism and human rights violations. The September 2021 Pakistani dossier revealed alarming statistics, including unmarked graves and numerous cases of human rights abuses, validating Geelani’s lifelong struggle and assertions.
Dr. Ejaz Khan also noted that Geelani’s legacy extends beyond his lifetime, continuing to inspire Kashmiris to fight for their right to self-determination. The struggle for Kashmir remains a critical issue in South Asia, with experts urging international bodies to enforce UN resolutions and address the ongoing conflict. The demand for justice includes allowing Geelani’s family to honor his final resting place according to their wishes.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi echoed these sentiments, affirming that the mission of Syed Ali Geelani would persist until Kashmir achieves freedom from Indian control. The tributes reflect the deep respect and admiration for Geelani’s role in the Kashmir struggle and highlight the continuing need for international intervention to address the region’s enduring issues.
