This is why Geelani stayed home this winter?
Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani, according to his close aides, preferred to stay in Kashmir this winter to keep a close watch on the evolving political situation in view of the resumption of India-Pakistan dialogue and to complete third volume of his book “Iqbal Rooh-e- Deen Ka Shanasa”.
The ailing separatist leader recently suffered asthma attack. He was administered oxygen by doctors on Sunday after suffering the asthma attack. The oxygen support was removed later after the infection subsided in the afternoon. He has been advised by the doctors to stay in isolation at his Hyderpora residence and avoid public contact.The leaders of the Hurriyat faction led by him maintained that despite facing health issues, he (Geelani) preferred to stay in the Valley during harsh winters to keep a close eye on the emerging political developments on the Kashmir issue.
“The resumption of dialogue process between India and Pakistan, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s surprise visit to Pakistan and other political developments between the two neighboring countries have direct bearing on the Kashmir issue,” senior Hurriyat (G) leader and Personal Secretary of Geelani, Peer Saifullah told .
He said ailing Geelani preferred to spend winter in Kashmir this time to keep a close eye on the political situation in the Valley and evolving developments in India- Pakistan dialogue.
“Geelani sahab told me that Kashmir is more important to him then his health,” he said.
The Hurriyat (G) chairman used to shift to New Delhi in winters to stay at his daughter’s residence.
“Despite facing health issues and problems, Geelani sahab stayed in the Valley this winter to guide us during the emerging political situation,” said Saifullah adding, “We need his continued guidance in carrying forward the struggle to its logical conclusion”.
He said besides Geelani had to complete third volume of his book “Iqbal Rooh-e- Deen Ka Shanasa”.
“He has already written two volumes and has completed its third volume, which will be released soon,” added Saifullah.
Hurriyat Conference (G) spokesperson Ayaz Akbar said Geelani has almost recovered.
“He is still staying in isolation as advised by the doctors. Many delegations including Hurriyat leaders and activists visited his residence today to enquire about him. We did not allow them to meet him,” he said.
Akbar said he (Geelani) would stay in isolation for few more days so that infection subsides fully. “Afterwards every visitor would be permitted to meet him”.
