SRINAGAR: Writer, columnist and physician Dr Javid Iqbal passed away at a hospital in Srinagar on Thursday. He was 80.
Family sources said Dr Iqbal was admitted to Paras Hospital on Wednesday night after his health deteriorated. He breathed his last on Thursday.
Born in January 1946, Dr Iqbal had recently turned 80. He was the son of noted academic Prof Saif-ud-Din.
Dr Iqbal served as a medical practitioner in Kashmir and abroad, including ten years in Iran and five years in Libya. After returning to Kashmir, he devoted himself to writing and public discourse, authoring several books and contributing columns and articles on a range of subjects over the years.
He resided in Rawalpora, Srinagar. Family members said his funeral prayers are likely to be held at Chanpora-Harwan, while he will be laid to rest at his ancestral graveyard at Magharmal Bagh.
He is survived by his son Wajahat, who is settled in Canada, and his daughter, based in the United Kingdom. His daughter and son-in-law have already arrived in Srinagar. Most of his relatives are settled abroad.
News of his passing was widely shared on social media, with writers, academics and acquaintances expressing grief and condolence messages.
Dr Javid Iqbal is also survived by his wife, son Wajahat, daughter Romana, and son-in-law, besides his brothers Zaffar Saif and Suhail. Bashir Siraj is his brother-in-law.
A family member said he had been battling cancer for nearly two years and was responding to treatment, with the condition largely under control. However, he suddenly fell unconscious four days ago before being admitted to hospital.
