Sat Jun 21 08:58:56 UTC 2025: **News Article Summary:**
**Separatist Leader’s Health Sparks Concern, Calls for Intervention**
Srinagar, June 21, 2025 – Prominent Kashmiri leaders Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Mehbooba Mufti are urging the Central Government to ensure proper medical treatment for incarcerated separatist leader Shabir Shah, who is reportedly suffering from prostate cancer. Shah, the former head of the banned Democratic Freedom Party, is currently imprisoned in Tihar Jail following his 2017 arrest by the NIA in connection with an alleged terror financing case.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, speaking after Friday prayers, expressed deep concern over reports of Shah’s deteriorating health and the denial of family access, including phone calls, for the past two years. He highlighted the rejection of Shah’s wife’s bail plea based on his medical condition.
Mehbooba Mufti echoed these concerns, specifically mentioning the urgent need for surgery. She appealed to Home Secretary Govind Mohan for humanitarian intervention, requesting compassion and allowing Shah’s family to be by his side.
The Delhi High Court recently denied Shah’s bail plea, citing his involvement in numerous criminal cases related to the secession of Jammu and Kashmir. Despite this, calls are growing for the government to address Shah’s health crisis and grant his family access during this critical time.
First Piper 