SRINAGAR: Nazir Ahmad Wani, a former Naib Tehsildar who was dismissed from government service on May 5, 2021, passed away today after suffering a heart attack at his residence. The news of his passing was shared by MLA Pulwama, Waheed Parra, who posted an emotional tribute on social media.
“After Fajr Namaz, Nazir Sahab took his last breath, passing away from a heart attack in his home in Pulwama. He died in the quiet of dawn, far from the noise and chaos that had consumed so much of his life,” wrote Parra. He described Wani as a man of “unshakable principles,” whose life was marked by resilience and silent suffering.
Wani, a once respected government official, faced hardship after being dismissed in 2021 under Article 311 of the Indian Constitution, which allowed his removal without an inquiry on grounds of “state security.” The decision came amid allegations tied to a security incident in which a hideout was allegedly uncovered in a shop linked to Wani. The termination order was signed by the Lieutenant-Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, who cited security concerns as the basis for the dismissal.
After his dismissal, Wani was detained under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and spent nearly two years in Central Jail Srinagar, where Parra shared a cell with him for 18 months. In his tribute, Parra spoke of Wani’s unwavering kindness, even in the face of failing health, and his dedication to lifting the spirits of fellow inmates.
Parra also reflected on the painful toll incarceration took on Wani, “Jail does more than imprison a man; it shackles his heart to everything he cannot touch, cannot hold.” Despite his acquittal, Wani’s release came after significant physical and emotional damage had been done. By the time he was declared innocent, his health had deteriorated, and his relationships with his family had suffered from years of separation.
Wani’s legacy extends beyond his personal struggles, as he was known for his grassroots political involvement and selfless community service. Having joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to advocate for justice and support the wrongfully detained, Wani campaigned tirelessly, asking for nothing in return but driven by his commitment to helping others.
Former Chief Minister and PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti previously spoke out against Wani’s dismissal, condemning the lack of transparency and alleging that the government’s priorities were misaligned. Her statement highlighted broader criticisms regarding the handling of government employees in Jammu and Kashmir amid heightened security concerns.
As per a report in ETV Bharat on August 5, 2024, 86 government employees, including doctors, teachers, and policemen, have been dismissed five years since abrogation of Article 370 as part of efforts to dismantle the militancy ecosystem.
