In a shocking development, the Indian occupying police raided the residence of martyr Syed Ali Geelani in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, further intensifying the oppressive measures against the Kashmiri people. The raid, carried out in the Hyderpora area of Srinagar, has drawn widespread condemnation, particularly from the All-Party Hurriyat Conference. This move underscores the continued repression faced by the region’s freedom fighters and their families, even after their passing.
Raid on Syed Ali Geelani’s Residence
According to reports from Kashmir Media Service (KMS), a contingent of Indian police personnel surrounded Syed Ali Geelani’s house in Srinagar. The forces conducted a thorough search of his room, confiscating books, important documents, and personal belongings. The raid lasted for approximately an hour, during which the family of the late leader had to endure yet another instance of harassment.
Syed Ali Geelani, an icon of the Kashmiri freedom struggle, was martyred in 2021 while under house arrest. Despite his passing, his residence remains a focal point of resistance and inspiration for many in the region, making it a target for Indian forces seeking to suppress dissent.
Targeting Tehreek-e-Hurriyat Jammu and Kashmir
In addition to raiding Syed Ali Geelani’s residence, Indian police also targeted the office of the banned Tehreek-e-Hurriyat Jammu and Kashmir in the Hydapura Mominabad area. KMS reported that the forces broke the locks of the office, entered the premises, and conducted a search. Several important documents were seized during the operation, further tightening the noose around the region’s pro-freedom voices.
The Tehreek-e-Hurriyat Jammu and Kashmir has been at the forefront of the struggle for the region’s right to self-determination. Declared a banned organization by the Indian government, its members and activities have long been under surveillance and suppression.
A Legacy of Resistance
Syed Ali Geelani, often referred to as the face of the Kashmiri freedom movement, spent decades advocating for the rights of the Kashmiri people. He was placed under house arrest in 2011, and his final years were marked by relentless restrictions and isolation. Despite his deteriorating health, he refused to accept Indian domination and remained steadfast in his stance against what he termed Indian slavery.
The Hurriyat leader’s passing in 2021 was met with an outpouring of grief and reverence from Kashmiris across the globe. The All-Party Hurriyat Conference stated that his death was a martyrdom caused by prolonged detention and the inhumane treatment he endured at the hands of Indian authorities.
Hurriyat Conference Condemns the Raid
The All-Party Hurriyat Conference has strongly condemned the raid on Syed Ali Geelani’s residence, calling it a reflection of India’s panic and insecurity. In a statement, the conference highlighted the irony of targeting a man who stood against oppression even in death.
The Hurriyat Conference asserted, “Syed Ali Geelani was a symbol of resilience and courage. Raiding his house and seizing personal belongings is a desperate attempt by Indian authorities to erase his legacy. However, such actions will only strengthen the resolve of the Kashmiri people.”
The raid has sparked outrage among the Kashmiri community and human rights activists, who see it as a blatant attempt to intimidate and suppress the spirit of resistance.
Continued Oppression in Kashmir
The raid is the latest in a series of measures aimed at silencing dissent in Jammu and Kashmir. Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, the region has seen a significant escalation in military crackdowns, arbitrary detentions, and restrictions on basic freedoms. The targeting of deceased leaders like Syed Ali Geelani and their families reflects the extent of India’s crackdown on pro-freedom voices.
Despite these challenges, the people of Kashmir continue to resist, drawing inspiration from leaders like Syed Ali Geelani. His unyielding stance and refusal to compromise on his principles remain a guiding light for many in the struggle for self-determination.
Global Condemnation and Call for Justice
The international community has repeatedly expressed concern over the human rights situation in Jammu and Kashmir. Organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have called for accountability and an end to the cycle of repression.
The raid on Syed Ali Geelani’s house has reignited calls for global attention to the plight of the Kashmiri people. Activists urge the world to recognize these actions as part of a broader campaign to erase Kashmiri identity and suppress their legitimate aspirations.
The raid on Syed Ali Geelani’s residence is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Even in death, Geelani’s legacy challenges the status quo, representing the unwavering spirit of a people fighting for their rights. The actions of the Indian authorities, far from silencing this legacy, have only amplified its resonance.
As calls for justice grow louder, the international community must take decisive steps to address the situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The Kashmiri people’s fight for dignity, freedom, and self-determination deserves the world’s unwavering support.
