SRINAGAR: The second death anniversary of veteran journalist Qasim Sajjad was commemorated in Anantnag. A function was organised in collaboration with the monthly Urdu magazine Lafz, Anjuman e Urdu Sahafat Jammu and Kashmir, and Anantnag Working Journalists Association (AWJA).
The ceremony was presided over by Justice (R) Bashir Ahmad Kirmani. Special guests in attendance included Professor Nasir Mirza, Tahir Mohiuddin, Editor-in-Chief of the daily “Chatan,” Broadcaster Muhammad Yusuf Nairang, Muhammad Amin Bhat, President of Adbi Markaz Kamraz, and well-known writer, poet, and journalist Zahid Mukhtar, among other dignitaries. The event saw the participation of individuals from various backgrounds, including writers, journalists, and prominent figures.
During the event, a booklet titled “Jars-e-Qasim” containing the editorials published in Qasim Sajjad’s weekly newspaper was unveiled. Kashmir journalist Riyaz Masroor provided the introduction for the booklet and also served as the program’s anchor.
Several speakers discussed the late Qasim Sajaad’s work and the current state of journalism. They emphasised the significant and enduring journalistic contributions of Qasim Sajjad, which continue to serve as an inspiration for those addressing societal issues through their words and writing.
Justice (R) Bashir Ahmad Kirmani delivered the presidential address, paying tribute to Qasim Sajjad’s high journalistic standards and unwavering commitment to independence of thought, word, and action. Professor Nasir Mirza highlighted Qasim Sajjad’s irreplaceable role in journalism, emphasising his dedication to journalistic values and principles.
Broadcaster Muhammad Yusuf Nairang praised Qasim Sajjad as a sophisticated and fearless journalist who rendered unforgettable service to the profession. Muhammad Amin Butt, President of Adbi Markaz Kamraz, commended Qasim Sajjad’s professional honesty and bold courage.
Young journalist Hakeem Irfan Rasheed spoke about the significance of Qasim Sajjad’s contributions to journalism, stating that his ideas remain relevant to the current landscape and can be republished with minor adjustments.
During the event, the Qasim Sajad Foundation Anantnag was launched, and senior journalists Manohar Lalgami and Qayoom Zulfi were honored with the Qasim Sajjad Award for their valuable services in Urdu journalism. Prominent cartoonist S Tariq was also recognised for his contributions to the field of journalism.
Professor Nasir Mirza received an honor with the Qasim Sajad Award. Anjuman Urdu Sahafat was acknowledged for its outstanding contributions to the development and promotion of Urdu journalism and the capacity building of working journalists. The award was received by Imtiaz Ahmad Khan, a senior member of the organisation, on behalf of President Anjuman Urdu Sahafat. The function was anchored by senior journalists Riyaz Masroor and Haroon Rishi, and the vote of thanks was presented by a journalist and the son of Qasim Sajad.
Pertinent to mention , Senior Urdu Journalist Qasim Sajad passed away on October 4, 2021 in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. He was 75.
He was the editor of Shahab newspaper and has authored several books.
