Syed Ali Shah Geelani, a prominent face in Kashmir’s separatist movement, passed away at the age of 92 in Srinagar. Known for his strong opposition to Indian rule in Kashmir, Geelani played a key role in shaping the political narrative of the region for over seven decades.
A Life Dedicated to a Cause
Geelani was a man with deep convictions. In 1995, after his release from prison, he welcomed a young Indian student into his home in Hyderpora. He had a polite and graceful manner, but his words were clear and strong. During their long conversation, Geelani emphasized two key points:
- He proudly identified as a Pakistani by heart, not just a Kashmiri.
- He rejected the idea of an independent Kashmir, calling it unrealistic and harmful.
Despite knowing that many people in Kashmir supported independence from both India and Pakistan, Geelani remained firm in his belief that Kashmir should be part of Pakistan.
Support and Opposition Within the Movement
While Geelani pushed for unity with Pakistan, other leaders like Yasin Malik, of the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), had a different vision. Malik supported an independent Kashmir, separate from both nations.
This difference created a deep divide within the separatist movement. Over time, Malik’s group lost ground, and Geelani’s allies, especially the Hizb-ul Mujahideen, became stronger. Backed by Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies, this group targeted not only Indian forces but also pro-independence activists, leading to internal conflict and public resentment.
From Peaceful Protests to Armed Resistance
Initially, Geelani was against violence. In the 1980s, when youth in the Kashmir Valley began thinking about armed rebellion, he advised peaceful methods. In the Jamaat-i-Islami newspaper, Azaan, he urged people to raise awareness and demand a UN-led plebiscite through non-violent means.
However, by 1991, as violence took over the valley, Geelani changed his stance. From his prison cell, he compared Kashmir’s fight to India’s freedom struggle, mentioning both Gandhi’s non-violence and Bose’s armed efforts.
An Unwavering Voice
Geelani’s political beliefs were shaped early on. He was first guided by Maulana Sayyid Masoodi, a well-known pro-independence figure. But in the 1950s, he was deeply influenced by Maulana Abul Ala Maududi, founder of the Jamaat-i-Islami. This connection would define his path for the rest of his life.
His autobiography, Wular Kinaray (From the Wular’s Shore), gives insight into his thoughts and journey. Even as the region went through major changes, especially after the Indian government revoked Kashmir’s autonomy, Geelani remained a symbol of defiance for many.
A Legacy of Resistance
After his death, Indian security forces blocked roads around his residence to prevent unrest. But his memory lives on in Kashmir’s political history.
While opinions on Geelani vary widely, many agree that his steadfastness, clarity, and commitment made him a respected figure—even among those who disagreed with his views. His life represents a complex chapter in Kashmir’s long and painful struggle.
