Hurriyat Conference leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq visited the residence of veteran separatist leader Professor Abdul Gani Bhat in Batangoo, Sopore on Saturday, September 20, 2025, to offer condolences to the bereaved family. This visit occurred after Mirwaiz was released from three days of house detention.

Professor Abdul Gani Bhat, a senior figure in separatist politics and former chairman of the Hurriyat Conference, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 90. He had maintained a significant role in the political landscape of Jammu and Kashmir for decades. Bhat was seen as a moderate leader within the separatist movement.

Mirwaiz expressed deep sorrow at Professor Bhat's demise, describing it as a personal loss, as the deceased leader was to him an affectionate elder, dear friend, and guide. He regretted not being allowed to participate in the Jinazah. Mirwaiz also noted that Professor Bhat was not only a respected academic and scholar but also a visionary politician who consistently upheld dialogue and moderation as the way forward. He said that Bhat's passing is an irreparable loss for the people of Jammu & Kashmir.

Mirwaiz expressed solidarity with the family of Professor Bhat and conveyed sympathies over their recent bereavement. Family members of Professor Bhat received Mirwaiz at the house, where brief interactions were held. Sources indicated that the meeting was informal and primarily meant to express support during the mourning period.

Prior to this visit, on Friday, September 19, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq said he was denied permission to lead prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar for the second consecutive Friday. He stated that authorities were curbing basic rights. Mirwaiz lamented that he was not allowed to participate in the Janazah of Prof. Bhat.

Mirwaiz had a long association of over 35 years with Prof. Bhat and described him as a gentle intellectual. He also stated that Prof. Bhat's legacy will endure as that of a scholar-statesman who combined intellect with humility, courage with patience, and conviction with compassion.