Syed Ali Shah Geelani; A life dedicated to Kashmir
By Shehnaz Nawaz
Researcher at Pakistan’s MOIB
Syed Ali Shah Geelani was a symbol of Kashmir’s resistance. Geelani spearheaded Kashmir’s movement for the right to self-determination and was a staunch proponent of merging the Indian-controlled Kashmir with Pakistan. As soon as the news of his death began to make the rounds in the disputed Himalayan region, authorities blocked internet access and deployed hundreds of troops in the main city of Srinagar to prevent a mass funeral procession or protests against Indian rule.
India had reasons to be apprehensive obviously. For decades, Geelani was the symbol of popular resistance for the Kashmiris who either wanted to carve an independent country out of the Himalayan territory or merge with neighboring Pakistan. He headed the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC), an umbrella group of various Kashmiri political and religious groups formed in 1993 to spearhead a movement for the region’s right to self-determination. One of the core principles of Geelani’s political ideology was the right to self-determination. He firmly believed that the Kashmiri people should have the right to decide their own destiny through a free and fair plebiscite. Geelani’s advocacy for self-determination aligned with international norms and the United Nations resolutions on Kashmir, which call for a plebiscite to determine the future of the region.
Throughout his life, Geelani was an ardent critic of the Indian rule in Kashmir. He consistently opposed what he viewed as the Indian government’s oppressive policies and military presence in the region. His unwavering stance made him a symbol of resistance against what he and many Kashmiris saw as an occupation.
Geelani was a vocal advocate for human rights in Kashmir. He brought attention to the alleged human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary detentions, and torture, carried out by Indian security forces in the region. His efforts to shed light on these issues earned him respect from human rights organizations and activists worldwide.
Despite his staunch opposition to Indian rule, Geelani consistently advocated for non-violence and peaceful resistance. He believed in the power of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve the Kashmir issue. Throughout his career, he called for meaningful negotiations between India, Pakistan, and the Kashmiri leadership to find a peaceful and just solution to the conflict.
Geelani’s dedication to the Kashmiri cause did not go unnoticed on the global stage. He received international recognition for his efforts to highlight the plight of the Kashmiri people. His speeches and writings have resonated with audiences worldwide, garnering support for the Kashmiri struggle for self-determination.
Geelani’s path was fraught with challenges and personal sacrifices. He faced numerous periods of house arrest and detention by the Indian authorities. Despite these hardships, he remained steadfast in his commitment to the Kashmiri people’s cause, inspiring many with his resilience.
Geelani’s life and struggle were defined by his unwavering commitment to the rights and self-determination of the Kashmiri people. His advocacy for non-violence, human rights, and peaceful resistance earned him respect both within Kashmir and on the global stage. As the world continues to grapple with the complex Kashmir issue, Geelani remains a symbol of hope and determination for the Kashmiri people and their quest for self-determination.
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