Thousands Mourn Demise Of BJP Leader Faqir Muhammad Khan

: A sea of mourners flooded Kangan on Friday as thousands gathered to bid a final farewell to BJP leader and former Independent MLA from Gurez, Faqir Muhammad Khan, whose sudden and mysterious death has triggered calls for a thorough investigation.
Khan, 62, was found dead at his government-allocated residence in the high-security Tulsibagh area of Srinagar on Thursday. Following the completion of legal formalities, his body was brought to Kangan late in the evening, where an emotional farewell awaited him. The massive turnout included grieving family members, political colleagues, and residents who came to pay their respects.
The funeral procession was marked by sorrow and skepticism, as many refused to believe that the veteran politician had died by suicide. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding his death. However, the demand for an impartial and transparent probe continues to grow. Faqir Muhammad Khan had a long and influential political career. First elected as an Independent MLA from Gurez in 1996, he remained a strong political voice for the region. In 2020, he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and contested the last assembly elections under its banner but did not secure a victory. His untimely demise has left many questions unanswered. “Khan Sahib was a leader who always stood firm, even in difficult times. It is hard to accept that he would take such a step. We demand a fair probe to uncover the truth,” said a mourner.
Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti visited Kangan to offer her condolences to Khan’s family and reiterated the need for a proper investigation into the circumstances of his death.
Political leaders from across party lines expressed their grief. BJP Ganderbal District President Ghulam Hassan called Khan’s passing a “huge loss for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” He added, “His dedication to public service will be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this painful time.”
With mounting public demand for answers, Khan’s sudden demise remains a subject of widespread concern, as political and local circles await clarity on the investigation.