Police launch probe, LG, CM, others express grief
Srinagar, Mar 20: Former Gurez MLA and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Faqeer Mohammad Khan allegedly died by suicide at his official residence in Srinagar on Thursday, sending shockwaves across political circles in Jammu and Kashmir.
An official informed that Khan was found dead at his government-allocated quarters in Tulsi Bagh, Srinagar, after allegedly shooting himself. He said authorities were soon alerted, and a police team rushed to the scene.
“The exact reason behind this extreme step remains unknown. A probe has been initiated to ascertain the circumstances surrounding his death,” the official added.
Additionally, Srinagar Police, in an official statement, confirmed that a firearm discharge incident occurred in Tulsi Bagh, resulting in Khan’s death. “A case has been registered at Police Station Shergarhi under Section 194 of the BNSS. Initial findings suggest it appears to be a case of suicide. However, all possible angles are being examined,” the statement reads.
Notably, Faqeer Khan had contested the 2024 Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections from the Gurez constituency but lost to National Conference (NC) leader and former minister Nazir Ahmad Khan.
The electoral defeat was seen as a significant setback for Khan, who had been actively involved in grassroots politics. His demise has now left his supporters in deep shock. Many gathered outside his residence, struggling to come to terms with the news.
Khan had won from Gurez for the first time as an Independent in 1996. He contested in 2002 again from Gurez, but lost to the NC’s Nazir Khan (Gurezi). Khan went on to join the Congress and was fielded on the party’s ticket in 2008 and 2014. Candidates of the NC defeated him both times.
In 2020, Khan joined the BJP. When Assembly elections were held in J&K last year after a gap of 10 years, the BJP fielded Khan from Gurez. Given the narrow margins of Gurez’s defeat from the seat over the years, the party’s hope was that a concerted push by it could help him win, marking a big psychological boost for it.
During the campaign, Khan’s big pitch was promising employment in Gurez, which is a remote tourist destination.
“We have known Faqeer Khan for a long time. He was a dedicated leader. When we heard the news, we rushed to Tulsi Bagh, but we still can’t believe it,” said one of his supporters outside his government-allocated quarters.
Similarly, Khan’s family members and relatives were inconsolable at his residence. Eyewitnesses described an atmosphere of grief, with mourners wailing as news of his death spread. Political leaders and supporters from various backgrounds visited his residence to offer condolences.
Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, paid tribute to Khan’s contributions and wrote, “Faqeer Mohammad Khan’s role in the development of Gurez has been immense. He touched and improved thousands of lives. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and supporters. May his soul rest in peace.”
Similarly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also expressed sorrow over the tragedy and wrote, “Deeply saddened by the passing of former legislator Faqeer Mohammad Khan. He was a true grassroots leader who worked tirelessly for his people. My heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.”
Meanwhile, as a mark of respect, the House observed a two-minute silence in his honor. Additionally, authorities said they have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances leading to Khan’s death, while the preliminary report suggests suicide.
