The third death anniversary of prominent Kashmiri leader Syed Ali Geelani is being observed today, Sunday, with commemorative events planned on both sides of the Line of Control (LoC).

Geelani, a prominent voice for the freedom movement in Jammu and Kashmir, dedicated a significant portion of his life to the cause of Kashmiri independence.

On both sides of the LoC, special events, including rallies, processions, demonstrations, and seminars, will be held to pay tribute to the revered leader.

Who was Syed Ali Geelani?

Syed Ali Geelani, a powerful voice for the Jammu and Kashmir freedom movement, was born on September 29, 1929, in the village of Zarmunz in the Indian-administered district of Bandipore. He began his struggle against Indian rule through the platform of the Jamaat-e-Islami.

Geelani also played a key role in establishing active organizations like the All Parties Hurriyat Conference and the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, dedicated to achieving freedom from India. He was elected to the assembly from the Sopore constituency in Indian-administered Kashmir three times.

Geelani spent over two decades in Indian prisons, where he wrote his autobiography, “Roodad Qafas”. He remained under house arrest for 11 years, from 2010 until his death, under the orders of the Indian government. His passport was confiscated by the Indian government in 1981.

Geelani passed away on September 1, 2021, in Hyderpora, Srinagar. Following his death, the Indian government imposed a curfew across the valley, suspending internet and media access. Geelani was buried wrapped in the Pakistani flag. A special prayer service was held in the Pakistani National Assembly, and the national flag was lowered in his honor.

On the occasion of Pakistan’s 73rd Independence Day, the Pakistani government recognized Geelani’s contributions to the Kashmiri freedom movement by awarding him the Nishan-e-Pakistan, a prestigious national award.