ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has conveyed a strong demarche to India and expressed solidarity with Kashmiris on first Anniversary of Martyrdom of Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani. Foreign Office in a statement said Pakistan joins Kashmiris on both sides of Line of Control in paying tribute to iconic Kashmiri Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani on first anniversary of his martyrdom today. Syed Ali Shah Geelani breathed his last in long-drawn illegal Indian custody on this day last year.

Indian Charge d’Affaires in Islamabad was called to Ministry of Foreign Affairs and a strong demarche was made over India’s continued obstinacy and refusal to accept Syed Ali Shah Geelani’s right to a burial in accordance with his will.

Indian Charge d’Affaires was conveyed Pakistan’s deep regret that despite passage of one year since Syed Ali Shah Geelani’s demise in Indian custody, Government of India had persisted in its intransigence and denied him a dignified burial in “Cemetery of Martyrs” as per his desire. More ominously, Kashmiris were not even allowed to pay respects to revered leader at graveyard in Hyderpora, Srinagar where he was hurriedly buried by Indian occupation forces in absence of his family and followers.

Indian Charge d’Affaires was urged to convey to Government of India that mortal remains of late Syed Ali Shah Geelani must be interred at “Cemetery of Martyrs” as per his will, and unhindered access be given to his family and followers to pay reverence to great leader. Foreign Office said that Syed Ali Shah Geelani’s unflinching commitment to Kashmir cause, in face of persistent persecution and tremendous personal hardship, is unparalleled.

Published in The Daily National Courier, September, 02 2022

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