Baramulla, Mar 19: Shujaat Bukhari, Founder Editor of Rising Kashmir, was remembered on his eighth death anniversary according to the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. Hundreds of people gathered in the morning to pay tribute to the slain journalist, with family members, local residents, and public representatives participating in the prayers and offering condolences.
Among those present were his son Tamheed Bukhari, MLA Wagoora-Kreeri Adv. Irfan Hafiz Lone, Editor-in-Chief Rising Kashmir Hafiz Ayaz Gani, Principal Higher Secondary School Dangerpora Mushtaq Sopori, Maulana Syed Farooq Bukhari, Congress leader Suhail Bukhari, Mufti Sharif-ul-Haq Bukhari, Syed Mushtaq Qadri, and several other prominent figures from the area.
Bukhari was assassinated on June 14, 2018, by unidentified gunmen outside his office at Press Enclave in Srinagar. Two of his personal security officers were also killed in the attack. The incident triggered widespread condemnation across political, media, and civil society circles.
During the commemorative gathering, speakers recalled Bukhari’s contributions to journalism in Kashmir and described him as a respected media professional who played a key role in shaping public discourse in the region. Participants said that Bukhari had consistently highlighted social, political, and human issues through his work, and that his efforts helped bring multiple perspectives into the public domain at a time when the region faced complex challenges.
Locals attending the event said his legacy continues to be remembered in Kreeri and across Kashmir, with many describing him as a voice that worked towards dialogue and understanding. The gathering remained peaceful, with people offering Fateha and special prayers for the departed soul. Attendees also paid homage to the two security personnel who lost their lives in the 2018 attack.
Observers noted that Bukhari’s killing had a significant impact on the media environment in Kashmir. Following the incident, concerns were raised regarding the safety of journalists working in the region. Over the years, his death has continued to be marked by media organisations, journalist bodies, and civil society groups through remembrance events, discussions, and tributes.
On Thursday, several journalists and media professionals also remembered Bukhari through social media posts, highlighting his role in promoting responsible journalism and dialogue. Officials and public representatives present at the event emphasised the importance of ensuring a safe environment for journalists and underlined the need for continued efforts to support independent media and protect those working in the field.
The annual remembrance at Kreeri has become a regular event, drawing people from different parts of the district and beyond. Residents said that such gatherings serve as a reminder of Bukhari’s contributions and the circumstances of his death.
Bukhari’s work through Rising Kashmir continues to be referenced in discussions on journalism in the region, with colleagues and contemporaries often describing him as a professional who sought to maintain balance in reporting amid difficult conditions.
The event concluded with prayers and a collective expression of solidarity with the family.
