Pakistan announces 'state of mourning' on the demise of Kashmir Separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani

• Image Credit: Internet

• Sep 3, 2021 | moderator

The pro-Pakistan separatist leader, Syed Ali Shah Geelani spearheaded separatist politics for over three decades in Jammu and Kashmir, passed away here in Srinagar on 1st, September 2021.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan declared an official day of mourning on the demise of the Kashmiri separatist leader.

Syed died at the age of 92, at his residence in Srinagar. He was suffering from a prolonged illness and was buried at a mosque near his residence.

Imran Khan was "deeply saddened" to learn about Geelani’s death. "The Pakistan flag will fly at half-mast, and we will observe a day of official mourning," Khan said. India said it was the Pakistani PM's statement, and it had no comments to offer.

Asked about Khan's statement, Arindam Bagchi, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson, said, "I don't have an immediate comment on this. It is his statement. They had given him 'Nishan-e-Pakistan', their wish, what can I say."

Bagchi was questioned on reports of temple vandalizing, and breaking of idols in Pakistan, of which he replied that India had issued many statements on attacks on minorities in Pakistan.

Meanwhile, authorities have imposed a curfew in Srinagar following Geelani's death. Barricades, barbed wires have been put up leading towards Geelani's residence so as to prevent unwanted mass crowding of mourners.