Renowned scholar and political figure Prof. Abdul Gani Bhat passed away at 90 and was laid to rest in Sopore’s Botingoo graveyard. His contributions to dialogue in Kashmir will be remembered.
Prof. Bhat breathed his last on Wednesday evening at his family residence in Sopore. His funeral service, or Nimaz-e-Jinaza, was held later that day at Markazi Jamia Masjid Batingo, attended by a large gathering of mourners.
Tributes Pour In for Prof. Abdul Gani Bhat
On Thursday, community members and political leaders visited Prof. Bhat’s home to offer their condolences. Among them was Dr. Farooq Abdullah, president of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, who expressed heartfelt sorrow over the loss.
Dr. Farooq shared, “Our political ideologies were poles apart, but I will always remember him as a very civil and dignified individual. He was a moderate and courageous voice who stood for dialogue when many believed violence was the only way forward.” His sentiment reflects the influential role that Prof. Bhat played in promoting peaceful discourse in Kashmir.
Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Remembers a Mentor
Mirwaiz Molvi Umar Farooq also paid tribute to Prof. Bhat, commemorating their 35-year association. He described Prof. Bhat as a “respected academic, an accomplished scholar, and an upright politician” who always advocated for peaceful engagement in Kashmir.
“His absence has created a void that cannot be filled, but his words and vision will continue to inspire future generations,” said Mirwaiz.
Prof. Bhat’s Educational Legacy
Prof. Bhat’s influence reached far beyond the political realm. As an educator, he shaped many futures, including that of Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan, NC leader and former minister.
Ramzan recalled, “He was always affectionate and encouraging. An honest man, exceptionally intelligent, and a truly good human being.” His commitment to his students exemplifies the educator’s role in fostering new ideas and leaders within Kashmir.
A Scholar Who Championed Dialogue
Many remember Prof. Bhat as a voice of reason during tumultuous times. His steadfast commitment to dialogue over violence offers a lasting lesson for politicians and citizens alike.
Prof. Saifuddin Soz, a former Union Minister and close associate, emphasized Prof. Bhat’s moderate approach, stating, “He never cherished any kind of melancholy against anybody… Even when we differed on politics, he remained a cheerful and accommodating person.” This reflects the deep respect and affection he garnered throughout his life.
The passing of Prof. Abdul Gani Bhat leaves a significant gap in the community, but his legacy as a scholar and peacemaker will endure. Many hope that his vision for a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue will inspire future generations to pursue dialogue and understanding.
