Srinagar: Mainstream parties condemned the killing of senior journalist Shujaat Bukhari at press enclave on Thursday.
Governor N.N. Vohra has conveyed shock and grief on the gruesome killing. Recalling Bukhari’s standing as a veteran journalist Governor described his murder as a big loss to the media fraternity.
In a message Governor has prayed for peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss. Governor has called Sh. Basharat Ahmed Bukhari, Cabinet Minister and Shujaat’s brother, to convey his heartfelt sympathy.
In a condolence message, the Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti described the killing of Bukhari as highly barbaric, deplorable and condemnable. His killing today has only established that violence cannot stand the scrutiny of logic and rationality, she said in her statement adding the whole State today stands in unanimity in condemning this inhuman act of savagery.
Mehbooba Mufti said the role and contribution rendered by Shujaat Bukhari in institutionalisation the media here has become part of the journalistic history of the State. “One would always see him raising issues of common cause concerning people. He would often fight for the issues of people through his columns and various discussions but alas this voice of people stands silenced today brutally”, she added in her message.
The Chief Minister visited the Hospital and paid her respects to the departed soul. She also conveyed her heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family particularly his parents, wife and two kids.
Former chief minister Omar Abdullah and CPI leader M Y Tarigami also expressed shock at the killing.
“I’m in complete shock. Hearing the worst…Inna lilahi wa inna illahi rajiuun. Shocked beyond words. May Shujaat find place in Jannat & May his loved ones find strength at this difficult time,” Omar wrote on Twitter.
“Even in the last tweet he put out he was defending himself, his colleagues & his profession. He died in the line of duty doing what he did best & loved doing – journalism,” he said.
“Along with Shujaat, his security chap was also killed and another lies injured in hospital. Prayers and condolences for them and their families on this terrible night,” he said.
CPI(M) leader M Y Tarigami said it was a “brutal” attempt by hawks to silence the messenger of peace. He said it was Tan attack on freedom of press and needs to be condemned in the strongest possible words.
