Bhushan Bazaz, a respected Kashmiri Pandit leader known for his advocacy of dialogue and inter-community harmony, has died in New Delhi. He was 91 years old. Bazaz passed away on Monday after battling a prolonged illness.
A Voice for Dialogue and Kashmiriyat
Bazaz served as the chief of the Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Forum (JKDF). This organization consistently called for peaceful talks between India and Pakistan. It also urged dialogue between New Delhi and Srinagar to resolve the long-standing Kashmir issue.
The JKDF was originally founded by his father, Pandit Prem Nath Bazaz. The elder Bazaz was a well-known Pandit leader and historian. He helped establish the National Conference and strongly supported Kashmir's right to determine its own future.
Unique Role in Diplomacy
Bhushan Bazaz held a unique position among Kashmiri Pandit leaders. In 2001, he received a special invitation from the Pakistan High Commission. They asked him to welcome and meet then Pakistan President Parvez Musharraf during the Agra summit.
Bazaz attended this meeting despite facing protests from some Pandit groups. At the meeting, he presented President Musharraf with a copy of his father's book. The book was titled 'The History of Struggle for Freedom in Kashmir'.
Opposition to Separate Homeland
Bazaz firmly opposed the idea of creating a separate homeland for Kashmiri Pandits. He argued that such a move would endanger Pandits who still lived in the Kashmir Valley. He famously said it would turn them into "sitting ducks" for potential attacks.
Throughout his life, Bazaz regularly spoke out about human rights concerns in Kashmir. He raised alarms over alleged fake encounters and other violations. His consistent stance earned him respect even among separatist leaders in the Valley.
Personal Connections and Tributes
The Bazaz family maintained close ties with the family of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq is the Hurriyat chief and the Valley's chief cleric. He would often visit the Bazaz family during his trips to Delhi.
Following Bazaz's death, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq expressed deep sorrow. He posted a heartfelt tribute on social media platform X. In his post, he described Bazaz as a "dear friend of my father" and a "father-like presence" in his own life.
The Mirwaiz praised Bazaz as a "true upholder of Kashmiri ethics". He said Bazaz's sincere love, warmth, and affection would always remain with him.
Family and Legacy
Bhushan Bazaz is survived by his wife and his son, Kalhan. The family endured a previous tragedy when another son, Guruposho Bazaz, was shot dead in Canada in 2004. The gunmen responsible were never identified.
Bazaz's passing marks the end of an era for Kashmiri Pandit leadership. He stood as a bridge between communities, advocating for peace through conversation. His commitment to Kashmiriyat—the shared cultural heritage of Kashmir—remains his lasting legacy.
