Remembering Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on His 42nd Death Anniversary: The Legacy of Sher-e-Kashmir
Suhail Ahmad/ Kashmir Diamond
On 8th September 2024, Jammu and Kashmir marks the 42nd death anniversary of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, a towering figure who left an indelible mark on the political, social, and cultural landscape of the region. Popularly known as Sher-e-Kashmir (Lion of Kashmir), Sheikh Abdullah’s life was a testament to his iron will, dedication to the welfare of his people, and his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. As the founding leader of the All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference, later renamed the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), Sheikh Abdullah played a central role in the political history of Jammu and Kashmir, navigating the complex relationship between the state and the Indian Union.
Born on 5th December 1905 in Soura, near Srinagar, Sheikh Abdullah emerged as a political force in the 1930s, championing the rights of the Muslim majority population of Kashmir against the oppressive regime of the Hindu Maharaja Hari Singh. His advocacy for self-rule and his vision of a secular, democratic society won him widespread support across the state. His leadership in the movement for the state’s autonomy earned him the title of Sher-e-Kashmir, a symbol of his strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Sheikh Abdullah’s leadership was instrumental in shaping the political future of Jammu and Kashmir. In 1947, as India gained independence from British rule, the question of Kashmir’s accession to either India or Pakistan became a critical issue. Sheikh Abdullah stood firm in his belief that the people of Kashmir should determine their own future. While he opposed the idea of the state’s merger with Pakistan, he supported Jammu and Kashmir’s accession to India on the condition that the state would enjoy a special autonomous status under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution.
As the first elected Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir in 1948, Sheikh Abdullah’s government implemented progressive reforms, including the “Naya Kashmir Manifesto,” which sought to abolish feudal landlordism, redistribute land to the tiller, and guarantee the freedom of press and assembly. His vision aimed to create a more equitable society that provided economic and social justice to all citizens, irrespective of caste, creed, or religion.
However, his journey was not without challenges. In 1953, Sheikh Abdullah was dismissed from office and imprisoned on charges of attempting to make Kashmir an independent entity. He spent much of the next decade in prison, only to be released in 1964 by Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Despite the obstacles, his return to public life was met with immense support from the Kashmiri people, solidifying his position as a revered leader.
Sheikh Abdullah’s contributions extended beyond politics. His commitment to secularism, tolerance, and social justice earned him national recognition as a symbol of socialism and humanism. His efforts to build bridges between different communities in the state helped transform Jammu and Kashmir from a feudal and colonial society into a democratic one. His government, marked by inclusivity, appointed leaders from different religious backgrounds, including G.L. Dogra, Sardar Budh Singh, and Kushak Bakula, into key cabinet positions.
Upon his death on 8th September 1982, Sheikh Abdullah left behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of Kashmiris. His party, the JKNC, continues to advocate for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy, a cause that remains deeply tied to his vision. Sheikh Abdullah’s son, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, and grandson, Omar Abdullah, have carried forward his political legacy, keeping his ideals and vision alive in contemporary Kashmiri politics.
42nd Death Anniversary Observances
This year, as in previous years, Sheikh Abdullah’s death anniversary will be marked by special events across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Quran Khawani, floral tributes, and Fatiha Khawani will be held at his grave at the Mazar in Naseem Bagh, Hazratbal, in Srinagar. Led by Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, these observances are expected to draw participation from political leaders, party workers, and ordinary citizens who remember Sheikh Abdullah with deep respect and admiration.
In a statement, the JKNC described Sheikh Abdullah as a “father figure and political colossus” whose vision helped transform the state. “Although rooted in Kashmir, he had attained a national standing with his name becoming synonymous with socialism, humanism, pluralism, and democracy,” the party said.
Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah’s life and legacy continue to shape the identity and political discourse of Jammu and Kashmir. The **Sher-e-Kashmir**, with his tireless dedication to the people, remains a symbol of hope and resilience for the region. As the state continues to navigate its political future, his vision of justice, equality, and democracy stands as a guiding light for future generations.
