ISLAMABAD: While paying glowing tributes to veteran pro-freedom Kashmiri leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani on his first death anniversary, Altaf Hussain Wani, a senior leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) said his legacy continued to dominate political life in the occupied region.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Wani said Geelani was a towering personality and an internationally recognised leader who spent all his life advocating the Kashmiris’ legitimate right-the right to self-determination.
Calling Geelani one of Kashmir’s most revered and tenacious Hurriyat leaders, he said: “Geelani sahib was respected for the refinement of his personality, dedication and unwavering commitment to his mission,” adding he won accolades from people within and outside Kashmir even by his critics and political adversaries.
“The deceased leader was an ideologue and a strong proponent of Kashmiris’ right to self-determination, his life long struggle and sacrifices for Kashmir cause will serve as a beacon light for coming generations, who believe in the principle of justice, freedom and human rights,” Wani said.
Reiterating Kashmiris’ pledge to take the ongoing movement to its logical end, he said the best way to pay the tribute to Geelani was to uphold his mission and follow the proud legacy he had left behind.
“The legacy of Geelani continues to dominate political life in Kashmir”, Wani said. He added that India must take a leaf out of Kashmir’s history and know that it cannot suppress their legitimate political struggle by the dint of force or putting them in jails.
Stressing the need for resolving the dispute peacefully, he said it was high time that India should shun its repressive policies and create a congenial atmosphere.
