SRINAGAR: Omar Abdullah, the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, attended the funeral prayers of the renowned educator and scholar Hafiz Rashid Ahmad Banday in Poonch.
The Chief Minister expressed his deep sorrow on Twitter, saying, “Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. We belong to Allah and to him we shall return. Just heard the tragic news of the death of the son of Maulana Ghulam Qadir Sb of Poonch, Rashid Bandey Sb. This is indeed a great loss to Maulana Sb and his family, and I send them my heartfelt condolences. May Allah grant their loved one the highest place in Jannat.”
The Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK), led by its president, G N Var, also expressed profound grief over the passing of Hafiz Rashid Ahmad Banday, a prominent figure in socio-religious education and spirituality. The PSAJK offered heartfelt condolences.
Hafiz Rashid Ahmad Banday was not only the son of the esteemed Maulana Ghulam Qadir Banday, the founder and patron of Jamia Islamia Arabia Zia-ul-Uloom in Poonch, but also the brother of Waheed Ahmad Banday, PSAJK’s District President for Poonch. His passing is a great loss to his family, the community, and the institution. Hafiz Rashid was known for his dedication to education, having played a pivotal role in the development and administration of Jamia Islamia Arabia Zia-ul-Uloom, which flourished under his visionary leadership.
G N Var, president of PSAJK, highlighted Hafiz Rashid’s contributions beyond academia, noting that he was a beacon of guidance for his community, embodying faith, humanity, and compassion. He was also actively involved in managing Jamia Masjid Bagyalan, where he ensured a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere for worshippers. His service extended far beyond the walls of educational institutions, making him a revered figure in the community.
