Veteran Hurriyat leader and academician Professor Abdul Gani Bhat passed away on Wednesday evening.
Born in 1935 in Sopore, Professor Bhat was a prominent figure in Jammu Kashmir’s political and academic circles, widely recognized for his moderate stance and advocacy for dialogue in the region.
Professor Bhat was the first spokesperson of the Muslim United Front in 1986, a coalition that sought to represent the political aspirations of Kashmiri Muslims.
He later served as the chairman of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, a coalition of separatist groups formed in 1993. In addition, he presided over the Muslim Conference in Jammu Kashmir, which was later banned by the Indian government.
He is known for having an unflinching intellectual stand on Kashmir and promoting dialogue as the “only solution” to Kashmir issue.
Throughout his career, Professor Bhat emphasized peaceful negotiations and was involved in efforts aimed at fostering dialogue between India, Pakistan, and the people of Kashmir. Known for his measured approach, he sought to bridge divides and promote understanding in one of the region’s most complex political landscapes.
His passing marks the end of an era for Kashmir’s separatist leadership, and tributes from various political and civil society figures are expected in the coming days.
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