MIRPUR: On the occasion of Kashmiri leader Syed Ali Gilani’s death anniversary, his legacy was commemorated with reverence at a youth conference held at Khan Muhammad Khan Post Graduate College for Boys, Pallandri on Sunday.
The conference was organized by the Institute of Multi-Track Dialogue, Diplomacy, and Development Studies (IDDDS) with young participants who gathered to honor the life and enduring impact of one of Kashmir’s most influential leaders.
The conference, titled “Syed Ali Gilani: Legacy, Leadership, and Resistance,” marked the anniversary of Kashmiri leader Syed Ali Gilani’s passing, offering a platform to reflect on his relentless struggle for justice, his unifying efforts across diverse communities, and the lasting inspiration he provided to the youth.
The conference began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the National Anthem, setting a solemn tone for the proceedings. More than 200 students and youth participated in the conference.
Marking the anniversary of his passing, the event aimed to reflect on Syed Ali Gilani’s relentless struggle for justice, his efforts to unite people across diverse backgrounds, and the lasting inspiration he provided to the youth. Distinguished speakers addressed the audience, each highlighting different facets of Gilani’s life.
During the conference, speakers highlighted key aspects of Syed Ali Gilani’s enduring legacy. They emphasized that the slogan “Ham Pakistani hain, Pakistan hamara hai” (We are Pakistanis, Pakistan is ours) encapsulates a unifying message that bridges divides and affirms commitment to the mission.
The speakers argued that any deviation from this slogan amounts to disloyalty and undermines the shared cause. They praised Gilani as a towering figure whose struggle continues to serve as a beacon of inspiration for future generations. They noted that Gilani’s prolonged house arrest underscored his leadership acumen, demonstrating his resilience and unwavering dedication to the cause even under immense pressure.
The speakers further elaborated on the significant impact of leadership on resistance movements. They discussed how Gilani’s grassroots mobilization efforts and passionate advocacy for human rights inspired others to engage in activism. They highlighted how Gilani’s contributions to education and political thought have provided a guiding framework for navigating turmoil and advocating for justice.
The speakers also criticized the state of Indian democracy, suggesting that it has failed to uphold democratic ideals and, in some cases, is worse than dictatorship.
The speakers collectively underscored the importance of learning from Gilani’s sacrifices to further the cause of Kashmir and Pakistan, ensuring his legacy remains a source of strength and motivation for the future.
Nimra Maqsood, a research scholar, emphasized Gilani’s unwavering commitment to the Kashmir cause, underscoring his leadership in the resistance movement and his visionary efforts to foster unity among the people.
Professor Masood provided a historical overview of Gilani’s deep involvement in Kashmir’s political landscape. He spoke of Gilani’s significant contributions to education and intellectual development, which he used as tools of resistance, and his unique leadership style that combined strength with compassion.
Arshad Nadeem, a social activist, focused on Gilani’s grassroots mobilization efforts and his passionate advocacy for human rights. Nadeem discussed how Gilani’s ideology continues to resonate with the youth, inspiring them to engage in social and political activism.
Professor Nouman Siddiqui explored the philosophical underpinnings of Gilani’s resistance, delving into his contributions to political thought and his enduring message of perseverance in the face of adversity.
Justice Hameed addressed the legal challenges Gilani faced throughout his life, his dedication to strengthening local institutions against external pressures, and his lasting legacy in the realm of law and justice.
As the conference commemorated Syed Ali Gilani’s death anniversary, it provided a platform for the youth to gain a deeper understanding of his extraordinary life and his influence on Kashmir’s ongoing struggle for self-determination and unity.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the commitment to the principles Gilani championed, leaving the audience deeply inspired by his legacy of leadership, resistance, and unwavering dedication to justice.
