SRINAGAR, OCT 25: Religious cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has paid tribute to veteran Hurriyat leader Maulana Abbas Ansari on his fourth death anniversary, remembering him as a father figure whose guidance and support shaped his outlook, particularly during a challenging phase of the Kashmir political movement.
In a post on X, Mirwaiz recalled Maulana Abbas Ansari’s support for engaging in dialogue with India and Pakistan to pursue a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue, saying the approach was neither easy nor popular at the time but remained central to their conviction that dialogue offered the best way forward.
Recalling the difficult circumstances surrounding efforts to pursue dialogue, Mirwaiz referred to the loss of Abdul Ghani Lone and his uncle, Molvi Mushtaq, while highlighting the risks associated with advocating engagement and a peaceful resolution.
“More than a colleague, Abbas sb was a father figure in my life whose long association and guidance helped shape my outlook,” Mirwaiz wrote, reflecting on their longstanding association and the influence of the late leader.
He said Maulana Abbas Ansari stood firmly by him despite the challenges, maintaining that dialogue rather than confrontation offered a constructive path towards resolving the Kashmir issue.
Four years after Ansari’s death, Mirwaiz said his absence continued to be deeply felt, while reiterating that sincere dialogue remained the best way forward. He also emphasised that such an approach was important for ensuring peace in South Asia.
Concluding his tribute, Mirwaiz prayed for the eternal peace of the departed leader, seeking Allah’s blessings and the highest place for him in Jannah.
