Syed Ali Shah Geelani

Syed Ali Geelani was born in 1929 in a village called Zurimanz, in the Aloosa tehsil, in the Bandipora district of North Kashmir.{{efn|Abdul Hakeem states the birth place as the Khonus village, at the edge of Bandipora.{{sfnp|Hakeem, Paradise on Fire|2014|p=25}}}} He was the son of a landless labourer in the canals department. Geelani was educated partly in Sopore and the rest in Lahore. He studied in a madrasa attached to the Masjid Wazir Khan and later enrolled in the Oriental College. He completed Adib 'Alim, a course in Islamic theology.{{sfnp|Sikand, Jama'at-i-Islami of Jammu and Kashmir|2002|p=719}}{{sfnp|Hakeem, Paradise on Fire|2014|p=25}}

Returning to Kashmir after studies in Lahore, Geelani became active in the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference. He was appointed the secretary of the party unit in Zurimanj. In 1946, during the Quit Kashmir movement of the National Conference, he came in contact with Maulana Sayeed Masoodi, the general secretary of the National Conference, who took a liking to him and made him a reporter to the party newspaper Akhbar-i-Khidmat.{{sfnp|Sikand, Jama'at-i-Islami of Jammu and Kashmir|2002|p=719}}

Masoodi also sponsored further studies for Geelani, who completed an adib-i-fazil course in Urdu and other courses in Persian and English. After this, he took a job as a school teacher, first at Pathar Masjid and later at Rainawari in Srinagar.{{sfnp|Sikand, Jama'at-i-Islami of Jammu and Kashmir|2002|p=719}} Here he came in contact with Saaduddin Tarabali, a follower of the Jamaat-e-Islami founder Maulana Abul A'la Maududi. Maududi advocated a hardline Islamist ideology, whereby Islam had to be the foundation of the entire political order.{{sfnp|Hakeem, Paradise on Fire|2014|p=26}} Geelani had borrowed a book of Maududi from the local book store, which made a deep impression upon him. He was to later say, Maududi had "beautifully.. expressed the feelings that lay deep down in my own heart".{{sfnp|Sikand, Jama'at-i-Islami of Jammu and Kashmir|2002|pp=719–720}} The National Conference headquarters, Mujahid Manzil, where Geelani apparently stayed, soon began to be seen as "a den of Pakistanis".{{sfnp|Hakeem, Paradise on Fire|2014|p=26}}

Geelani was soon moved out of Srinagar, and he came to work in the Intermediate College in Sopore. He stayed in this position for six years. During this time, he was reading the literature of Jamaat-e-Islami and conveying its contents to his students in lectures. He also addressed congregations in mosques. He had become a full-fledged member of Jamaat in 1952.{{sfnp|Hakeem, Paradise on Fire|2014|p=26}}

Geelani entered into electoral politics ahead of the 1971 Indian general election. Geelani had claimed that the Jamaat-e-Islami wanted to use it as an opportunity to spread its ideology, keep the Kashmir issue in prominence and protect basic and fundamental rights of the people.{{citation needed|date=March 2023}} Geelani contested as an independent candidate but lost to Syed Ahmed Aga,{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2019/mar/14/a-multi-cornered-fight-in-nc-bastion-faesal-the-dark-horse-1950913.html|title=Baramulla-Kupwara: A multi-cornered fight in National Conference bastion; Faesal the dark horse|author=Fayaz Wani|date=14 March 2019|access-date=18 February 2023|work=The New Indian Express|archive-date=18 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218091453/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2019/mar/14/a-multi-cornered-fight-in-nc-bastion-faesal-the-dark-horse-1950913.html|url-status=live}} with the Jamaat alleging ballot rigging.{{citation needed|date=March 2023}}

He participated in the 1972 legislative assembly election from Sopore. He won from the seat in that year and again in the 1977 legislative assembly election. He was however defeated in the 1983 election due to the sympathy wave generated for the Jammu & Kashmir National Conference by the death of Sheikh Abdullah.{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Pd2ZDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT312|title=The Lost Rebellion: Kashmir in the Nineties|author=Manoj Joshi|publisher=Penguin Random House|year=2019|isbn=9788184752632|access-date=18 February 2023|archive-date=18 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218094607/https://books.google.com/books?id=Pd2ZDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT312|url-status=live}} Geelani also contested the 1977 Indian general election as an independent candidate due to the banning of Jamaat in 1975, but lost to Abdul Ahad Vakil.

In the 1987 legislative assembly election, Jamaat-e-Islami candidates including Geelani participated under a coalition of parties called the Muslim United Front (MUF). Geelani won the seat from Sopore, but was expelled from the MUF in 1988.{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=RfhQAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA188|title=Kashmir in Comparative Perspective: Democracy and Violent Separatism in India|author=Sten Wildmalm|publisher=Taylor & Francis|year=1997|isbn=9781136866944|pages=188, 189|access-date=18 February 2023|archive-date=18 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218095806/https://books.google.com/books?id=RfhQAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA188|url-status=live}} Geelani resigned as an MLA in August 1989 due to alleged widespread ballot rigging in the 1987 election.{{cite web|url=https://kashmirlife.net/a-quiet-burial-vol-13-issue-23-275799/|title=A Quiet Burial|work=Kashmir Life|author=Tahir Bhat|date=12 September 2021|access-date=18 February 2023|archive-date=18 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218091454/https://kashmirlife.net/a-quiet-burial-vol-13-issue-23-275799/|url-status=live}}

Geelani was viewed as a key separatist leader in Kashmir.[https://www.dawn.com/news/916178/indian-police-arrest-syed-ali-geelani-in-kashmir Indian police arrest Syed Ali Geelani in Kashmir] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215120954/https://www.dawn.com/news/916178/indian-police-arrest-syed-ali-geelani-in-kashmir |date=15 December 2018 }}, Dawn, 8 September 2010. Omar Abdullah, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, blamed Geelani for the rise in militancy and bloodshed in Kashmir, while his father and former Union Minister Farooq Abdullah urged Geelani to follow a path which would "save Kashmiri people from further destruction".{{cite news |title=Farooq, Omar lash out at Geelani |url=http://www.hindu.com/2007/04/29/stories/2007042902651000.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071219050314/http://www.hindu.com/2007/04/29/stories/2007042902651000.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 December 2007 |location=Chennai, India |newspaper=The Hindu |date=29 April 2007 }}{{cite news |title=Farooq asks Geelani to adopt a path which can save people |newspaper=The Hindu |url=http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/002200709081922.htm |location=Chennai, India |date=8 September 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070912183659/http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/002200709081922.htm |archive-date=12 September 2007 }}

He was one of the founding members of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC), an alliance of Kashmiri social and political organisations who supported a referendum for Kashmir, in 1993 and was the initial choice for the position of its chairman. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was however chosen instead due to the secular organisations forming majority of the alliance.{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2BPFAwAAQBAJ&pg=PT132|title=Paradise on Fire: Syed Ali Geelani and the Struggle for Freedom in Kashmir|author=Abdul Hakeem|publisher=Kube Publishing Limited|date=2 June 2014|isbn=9780953676866|page=132|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204100638/https://books.google.com/books?id=2BPFAwAAQBAJ&pg=PT132|url-status=live}} Geelani became the chairman in 1998,{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=qM6kW9ZRMRkC&pg=PA55|title=Demystifying Kashmir|author=Navnita Chadha Behera|publisher=Pearson Education|year=2006|isbn=9780815708599|page=53|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204104047/https://books.google.com/books?id=qM6kW9ZRMRkC&pg=PA55|url-status=live}} and was replaced by Abdul Ghani Bhat on 20 July 2000.{{cite web|url=https://www.milligazette.com/Archives/15-7-2000/Art18.htm|title=Interview: Abdul Ghani Bhat|work=The Milli Gazette|access-date=20 July 2020|archive-date=25 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625123206/https://www.milligazette.com/Archives/15-7-2000/Art18.htm|url-status=live}}

He also criticised the Jammu and Kashmir People's Conference for fielding proxy candidates in the 2002 assembly election and sought its removal, threatening to launch his own party.{{cite web|url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/the-nation/article30218114.ece|title=The battle within|author=Praveen Swami|work=Frontline|date=1 August 2003|access-date=7 February 2023|archive-date=7 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207053638/https://frontline.thehindu.com/the-nation/article30218114.ece|url-status=live}} In May 2003, the Jamaat-e-Islami removed him as its representative from the executive body of Hurriyat in order to counter hardliners in the organisation.{{cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/news/2003/may/24jk.htm|title=Geelani removed from Hurriyat executive by Jamaat-e-Islami|work=Press Trust of India|publisher=Rediff|date=23 May 2003|access-date=7 February 2023}} In August 2003 it removed him from the position of head of its political bureau, appointing Ashraf Sehrai in his place.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/geelani-is-out-of-jamaat-e-islami/articleshow/139060.cms|title=Geelani is out of Jamaat-e-Islami|work=The Times of India|date=20 August 2003|access-date=7 February 2023|archive-date=7 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207053646/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/geelani-is-out-of-jamaat-e-islami/articleshow/139060.cms|url-status=live}}

The appointment of Mohammad Abbas Ansari as chairman of Hurriyat precipitated a crisis in the organisation and it split in September 2003.{{cite web|url=http://www.ipcs.org/comm_select.php?articleNo=1156|title=The Hurriyat Splits (Urdu Media Survey 1-15 September 2003)|author=Amin Masoodi|work=Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies|date=20 September 2003|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204110804/http://www.ipcs.org/comm_select.php?articleNo=1156|url-status=live}} Geelani formed his own faction within the Hurriyat Conference, called the "All Parties Hurriyat Conference (G)", in September 2003 and was elected as its chairman for three years, replacing its interim chairman Masarat Alam Bhat. It consists of 24 parties. In 2006 he was re-elected for a term of three years despite expressing his desire to step down owing to ill health.{{cite web|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/2003/20030916/main4.htm|title=Geelani heads breakaway Hurriyat group|work=The Tribune|date=15 September 2003|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204110759/https://www.tribuneindia.com/2003/20030916/main4.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/news/2006/sep/13geel.htm|title=Geelani re-elected chairman of hardline Hurriyat Conference|work=Rediff|date=13 September 2006|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204080356/https://www.rediff.com/news/2006/sep/13geel.htm|url-status=live}}

{{cite web |author=Fayaz Wani |date=19 March 2018 |title=Syed Ali Shah Geelani quits as Tehreek-e-Hurriyat party chairman but will continue to head Hurriyat |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/mar/19/syed-ali-shah-geelani-quits-as-tehreek-e-hurriyat-party-chairman-but-will-continue-to-head-hurriyat-1789362.html |work=The New Indian Express}}

In 2015, he was appointed as the lifetime chairman of the faction.{{cite web|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/geelani-made-lifetime-chairman-of-hardline-hurriyat/articleshow/49922836.cms?from=mdr|title=Geelani made lifetime chairman of hardline Hurriyat|work=Press Trust of India|publisher=The Economic Times|date=25 November 2015|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204065735/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/geelani-made-lifetime-chairman-of-hardline-hurriyat/articleshow/49922836.cms?from=mdr|url-status=live}}

In February 2004, he sought to form his own party.{{cite web|url=https://www.jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2004/kashmir20040217c.html|title=Geelani To Float New Party|work=NNI News|publisher=Jammu-Kashmir.com|date=17 February 2004|access-date=7 February 2023|archive-date=24 November 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101124193306/http://jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2004/kashmir20040217c.html|url-status=live}} The Jamaat-e-Islami prohibited him from doing so{{cite web|url=https://www.jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2004/kashmir20040715c.html|title=Jamaat won't allow Geelani to float new party|work=The Daily Excelsior|publisher=Jammu-Kashmir.com|date=15 July 2004|access-date=7 February 2023|archive-date=24 November 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101124151736/http://jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2004/kashmir20040715c.html|url-status=live}} and suspended him.{{cite web|url=https://scroll.in/article/1004512/in-petition-to-delhi-high-court-jamaat-e-islami-distances-itself-from-separatism-in-kashmir|title=In petition to Delhi High Court, Jamaat-e-Islami distances itself from separatism in Kashmir|author=Safwat Zargar|work=Scroll|date=5 September 2021|access-date=7 February 2023|archive-date=7 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230307121302/https://scroll.in/article/1004512/in-petition-to-delhi-high-court-jamaat-e-islami-distances-itself-from-separatism-in-kashmir|url-status=live}} In response, he dropped the idea for launching the party and tried to take over the leadership of the organisation.{{cite web|url=http://www.jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2004/kashmir20040726b.html|title=Geelani camp all set to capture Jamaat hqs on Aug 5|work=The Daily Excelsior|publisher=Jammu-Kashmir.com|date=26 July 2004|access-date=7 February 2023|archive-date=16 December 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101216183238/http://jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2004/kashmir20040726b.html|url-status=live}} Bowing to the pressure, the Jamaat readmitted him in August 2004 and allowed him to form his own party.{{cite web|url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/other/article30224181.ece|title=The hawks strike back|author=Praveen Swami|work=Frontline|date=27 August 2004|access-date=7 February 2023|archive-date=7 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207053640/https://frontline.thehindu.com/other/article30224181.ece|url-status=live}} In the same month he founded the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat and was elected as its chairman for three years in October 2004.{{cite web|url=https://www.jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2004/kashmir20041012c.html|title=Geelani Elected Chairman Of Tehreek-e-Hurriyat|work=The Hindustan Times|publisher=Jammu-Kashmir.com|date=12 October 2004|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204061057/https://www.jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2004/kashmir20041012c.html|url-status=dead}} He was re-elected to the position for three year-terms consecutively in 2007, 2010{{cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/geelani-re-elected-hurriyat-chairman-113102600614_1.html|title=Geelani re-elected Hurriyat chairman|work=Press Trust of India|date=17 September 2013|access-date=4 February 2023|agency=Press Trust of India|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204071237/https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/geelani-re-elected-hurriyat-chairman-113102600614_1.html|url-status=live}} and 2013.{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/news-archive/web/geelani-reelected-as-chairman-of-hurriyat-arm/|title=Geelani re-elected as chairman of Hurriyat arm|work=The Indian Express|date=17 September 2013|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204065708/https://indianexpress.com/article/news-archive/web/geelani-reelected-as-chairman-of-hurriyat-arm/|url-status=live}} In 2017 he was given a year-long extension after the party failed to hold regular elections in 2016 due to the 2016–2017 Kashmir unrest.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2017/feb/26/geelani-gets-a-year-long-extension-as-chairman-of-tehreek-e-hurriyat-1575051.html|title=Geelani gets a year long extension as chairman of Tehreek-e-Hurriyat|work=The New Indian Express|date=26 February 2017|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=7 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207101101/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2017/feb/26/geelani-gets-a-year-long-extension-as-chairman-of-tehreek-e-hurriyat-1575051.html|url-status=live}}

Jammat-e-Islami removed Geelani from its advisory council in 2005.{{cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/news/2005/jun/16geelani.htm|title=Jamaat-e-Islami removes Geelani from advisory body|work=Press Trust of India|publisher=Rediff|date=16 June 2005|access-date=7 February 2023|archive-date=7 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207043710/https://www.rediff.com/news/2005/jun/16geelani.htm|url-status=live}} It later started distancing itself from him and stated that he did not represent them, but the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat.{{cite web|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/geelani-not-our-man-says-jamaat/597813/|title=Geelani not our man, says Jamaat|author=Bashaarat Masood|work=The Indian Express|date=31 March 2010|access-date=7 February 2023}} In April 2010 it temporarily expelled him from the organisation due to him defending the freedom of the author of his biography Qaid-e-Inqilab – Ek Tareekh, Ek Tehreek over making derogatory remarks against the party,{{cite web|url=https://www.jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2010/kashmir20100429c.html|title=Geelani Can't Be Reinstated: Jamaat|author=Shabir ul Haq|work=Kashmir Times|publisher=Jammu-Kashmir.com|date=29 April 2010|access-date=4 February 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204141016/https://www.jammu-kashmir.com/archives/archives2010/kashmir20100429c.html|url-status=live}} but later restored him as a basic member (rukun).{{cite web|url=https://kashmirlife.net/property-row-geelani-to-reply-jamaat-letter-12022014-55164/|title=Property row: Geelani to reply Jama'at letter|author=Muhammad Rafi|work=Kashmir Life|date=12 February 2014|access-date=7 February 2023|archive-date=7 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207102504/https://kashmirlife.net/property-row-geelani-to-reply-jamaat-letter-12022014-55164/|url-status=live}}

Geelani had called for numerous general strikes or shutdowns, in response to the deaths of unnamed suspected militants, local militants and death of civilians in Kashmir.{{cite web |url=https://www.authintmail.com/article/kashmir/partial-shutdown-kashmir-against-lolab-killings |title=Partial shutdown in Kashmir against Lolab killings |date=28 February 2014 |archive-date=14 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114080634/https://authint.com/ |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |url=https://www.authintmail.com/article/kashmir/hurriyat-calls-shutdown-sunday-against-naidkhai-killing |title=Hurriyat calls for shutdown on Sunday against Naidkhai killing |date=15 March 2014 |publisher=Authint Mail |archive-date=14 January 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160114080634/https://authint.com/ |url-status=live}}

Geelani had appealed to people of Kashmir to boycott the 2014 legislative assembly elections completely, not accepting the proposals for self-rule or autonomy that had been offered by the People's Democratic Party and the then ruling National Conference.{{cite web |author=Ishfaq Tantry |date=1 April 2014 |title=Kashmir: To Vote Or Not To Vote Is The Question |url=http://freepresskashmir.com/kashmir-to-vote-or-not-to-vote-is-the-question-073101/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140406152303/http://freepresskashmir.com/kashmir-to-vote-or-not-to-vote-is-the-question-073101/ |archive-date=6 April 2014 |publisher=Free Press Kashmir}}[http://ibnlive.in.com/news/syed-ali-shah-geelanis-jk-election-boycott-call-resonates-in-his-hometown-sopore/516279-37-64.html "Syed Ali Shah Geelani's J&K election boycott call resonates in his hometown Sopore"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141204083945/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/syed-ali-shah-geelanis-jk-election-boycott-call-resonates-in-his-hometown-sopore/516279-37-64.html|date=4 December 2014}}. in.com. 3 December 2014. Despite repeated boycott appeals, the elections had record voter turnout of more than 65%, which was the highest in 25 years of history of the state.[https://www.deccanchronicle.com/141223/nation-current-affairs/article/jammu-and-kashmir-registers-highest-voter-turnout-25-years "Jammu and Kashmir registers highest voter turnout in 25 years, Jharkhand breaks records"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030212728/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/141223/nation-current-affairs/article/jammu-and-kashmir-registers-highest-voter-turnout-25-years |date=30 October 2023 }} . deccanchronicle.com.[https://archive.today/20150315203847/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/jk-polls-76-per-cent-voter-turnout-recorded-in-the-final-phase/519066-3-245.html "J&K polls: 76 percent voter turnout recorded in the final phase"]. in.com. 20 December 2014. Retrieved on 23 July 2016.[http://www.ndtv.com/assembly/jammu-and-kashmir-registers-highest-voter-turnout-in-25-years-jharkhand-breaks-records-715845 "Jammu and Kashmir Registers Highest Voter Turnout in 25 Years, Jharkhand Breaks Records"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402171902/http://www.ndtv.com/assembly/jammu-and-kashmir-registers-highest-voter-turnout-in-25-years-jharkhand-breaks-records-715845|date=2 April 2015}}. ndtv.com. Retrieved on 23 July 2016. After record voting percentage in Kashmir, Geelani, along with other separatists, were criticised by Indian media for misleading people of Kashmir and for not representing true sentiments of Kashmiri people.[http://indianexpress.com/article/india/politics/jharkhand-jk-vote-for-phase-1-of-assembly-elections-today/ "J&K polls: Valley opts for ballot over bullet with 71 percent voting in first phase"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402161133/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/politics/jharkhand-jk-vote-for-phase-1-of-assembly-elections-today/|date=2 April 2015}}. indianexpress.com. 25 November 2014. Retrieved on 23 July 2016.[http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/toi-editorials/ballot-over-bullet-brisk-voting-in-jk-and-jharkhand-showcases-faith-in-democracy/ "Ballot over bullet: Brisk voting in J&K and Jharkhand showcases faith in democracy"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402141520/http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/toi-editorials/ballot-over-bullet-brisk-voting-in-jk-and-jharkhand-showcases-faith-in-democracy/|date=2 April 2015}}. indiatimes.com. 26 November 2014. Retrieved on 23 July 2016.

Geelani received the invitation to participate in the annual meeting of the foreign ministers of member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Kashmir Contact Group to be held in New York from 27 September 2015.[http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/syed-ali-shah-geelani-decides-to-participate-in-oic-meet-in-new-york/1/478631.html "Syed Ali Shah Geelani decides to participate in OIC meet in New York"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160812175846/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/syed-ali-shah-geelani-decides-to-participate-in-oic-meet-in-new-york/1/478631.html |date=12 August 2016 }}. India Today. Retrieved on 23 July 2016. After the killing of Burhan Muzaffar Wani and the unrest that followed it, to restore normalcy in Kashmir, Geelani sent a letter to United Nations listing six confidence-building measures.[http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/repeal-afspa-release-prisoners-for-peace-and-resolution-says-geelani/1/717003.html "Repeal AFSPA, release prisoners for peace and resolution, says Geelani"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170518185006/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/repeal-afspa-release-prisoners-for-peace-and-resolution-says-geelani/1/717003.html |date=18 May 2017 }}.India Today . Retrieved on 23 July 2016.[http://www.firstpost.com/india/kashmir-unrest-syed-ali-shah-geelani-lists-measures-for-return-of-peace-2899044.html Kashmir unrest: Syed Ali Shah Geelani lists measures for return of peace], Firstpost, 17 July 2016. {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402123137/https://www.firstpost.com/india/kashmir-unrest-syed-ali-shah-geelani-lists-measures-for-return-of-peace-2899044.html |date=2 April 2019 }}[http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/separatist-leader-geelani-asks-un-world-to-intervene-in-kashmir-terror/story-yBZ7Jul6DN9M4Pqw86b0yK.html "Separatist leader Geelani asks UN, world to intervene over Kashmir violence"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402075053/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/separatist-leader-geelani-asks-un-world-to-intervene-in-kashmir-terror/story-yBZ7Jul6DN9M4Pqw86b0yK.html |date=2 April 2019 }}. hindustantimes.com. 17 July 2016. Retrieved on 23 July 2016.

In March 2018, Geelani announced his resignation as chairman of the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat citing ill health, being replaced with Ashraf Sehrai. However he remained the chairman of his faction of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference.

{{cite web |date=19 March 2018 |title=Syed Ali Shah Geelani Resigns As Tehreek-e-Hurriyat Chairman, Muhammad Ashraf Sehrai To Replace Him |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/syed-ali-shah-geelani-resigns-as-tehreek-e-hurriyat-chairman-muhammad-ashraf-seh/309677 |work=Outlook}} In June 2020 he announced his resignation from the faction, accusing it of nepotism and corruption, in addition to misinterpreting his speeches and taking decisions without him.{{cite web |author=Peerzada Ashiq |date=29 June 2020 |title=Ailing Syed Ali Geelani quits Hurriyat Conference |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/hurriyat-chairman-syed-ali-shah-geelani-quits/article31943869.ece |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203101729/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/hurriyat-chairman-syed-ali-shah-geelani-quits/article31943869.ece |archive-date=3 February 2023 |access-date=3 February 2023 |work=The Hindu}} It however refused to accept his resignation and did not name a new chairman until after his death.

On 29 November 2010, Geelani, along with writer Arundhati Roy, activist Varavara Rao and three others,{{cite web |url=http://www.tehelka.com/sedition-fir-puts-delhi-police-in-a-tough-spot/ |title=Sedition FIR puts Delhi Police in a tough spot |author=Kujal Majumder |publisher=Tehelka.com |archive-date=15 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140315173420/http://www.tehelka.com/sedition-fir-puts-delhi-police-in-a-tough-spot/ |url-status=dead}} was charged under "sections 124A (sedition), 153A (promoting enmity between classes), 153B (imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration), 504 (insult intended to provoke breach of peace) and 505 (false statement, rumour circulated with intent to cause mutiny or offence against public peace...) to be read with Section 13 of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act of 1967". The charges, which carried a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, were the result of a self-titled seminar they gave in New Delhi, "Azadi-the Only Way" on 21 October, at which Geelani was heckled.{{cite web |url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/sedition-case-registered-against-arundhati-roy-geelani-69431 |title=Sedition case registered against Arundhati Roy, Geelani |author=Press Trust of India |publisher=NDTV |date=29 November 2010 |archive-date=4 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121004151802/http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/sedition-case-registered-against-arundhati-roy-geelani-69431 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Judge-ignores-key-ruling-in-Roy-sedition-case/articleshow/7045710.cms |title=Judge ignores key ruling in Roy sedition case |author=Manoj Mitta |newspaper=Times of India |date=5 December 2013 |archive-date=12 November 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121112044804/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Judge-ignores-key-ruling-in-Roy-sedition-case/articleshow/7045710.cms |url-status=live}}

Geelani lived in Hyderpora, Srinagar. Geelani has 2 sons; Nayeem and Naseem, and four daughters; Anisha, Farhat Jabeen, Zamshida, and Chamshida.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/14-properties-of-geelani-kin-worth-rs-150-crore-under-nia-lens/articleshow/59907752.cms |title=NIA: 14 properties of Geelani, kin worth Rs 150 crore under NIA lens |website=The Times of India |date=4 August 2017 |archive-date=12 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170912002551/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/14-properties-of-geelani-kin-worth-rs-150-crore-under-nia-lens/articleshow/59907752.cms |url-status=live}} Anisha and Farhat are Geelani's daughters from his second marriage. Nayeem and his wife are both doctors who used to live and practise medicine in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, but they returned to India in 2010.{{cite web |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/geelani-s-son-back-from-pak-after-12-yrs/717433/ |title=Geelani's son back from Pak after 12 yrs — Indian Express |website=archive.indianexpress.com |archive-date=6 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170606001846/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/geelani-s-son-back-from-pak-after-12-yrs/717433 |url-status=live}} Geelani's younger son, Naseem works as a Senior scientist at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology in Srinagar.{{cite web |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nia-grills-geelani-s-sons-jklf-chief-s-aide-in-terror-funding-case/story-Tj5lk6P0fbNNEG8ck0NJNK.html |title=NIA grills Geelani's sons, JKLF chief's aide in terror funding case |date=28 August 2017 |website=Hindustan Times |archive-date=11 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180111113127/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/nia-grills-geelani-s-sons-jklf-chief-s-aide-in-terror-funding-case/story-Tj5lk6P0fbNNEG8ck0NJNK.html |url-status=live}} Geelani's grandson Izhaar is a crew member in a private airline in India. Geelani's daughter Farhat is a madani teacher in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and her husband is an engineer there.{{cite news |title=As Valley kids suffer, separatists' wards thrive in safe havens |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20100919/main2.htm |newspaper=The Tribune |date=19 September 2010 |archive-date=9 September 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140909122930/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2010/20100919/main2.htm |url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=https://www.theweek.in/content/archival/news/india/hurriyat-leaders-children-leading-life-luxury.html |title=Children of Hurriyat: A life of luxury, here's the list |website=theweek.in |archive-date=26 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200526220845/https://www.theweek.in/content/archival/news/india/hurriyat-leaders-children-leading-life-luxury.html |url-status=dead}} Geelani's other grandchildren are studying in leading schools of India. His cousin Ghulam Nabi Fai is presently in London.{{cite web |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2016/jul/17/separatists-keep-own-kids-away-from-harms-way-881781.html |title=Separatists keep own kids away from harm's way |website=The New Indian Express |date=17 July 2016 |archive-date=1 July 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200701012439/https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2016/jul/17/Separatists-keep-own-kids-away-from-harms-way-881781.html |url-status=live}} Ruwa Shah, daughter of Kashmiri separatist Altaf Ahmad Shah (SAS Geelani's son-in-law) is a journalist.{{cite web |title=Geelani's granddaughter to hold anti-India show on Jan 7 |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/geelanis-granddaughter-to-hold-antiindia-show-on-jan-7/1699074 |url-status=live |website=outlookindia.com |archive-date=2 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902044014/https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/geelanis-granddaughter-to-hold-antiindia-show-on-jan-7/1699074}}{{cite web |url=https://caravanmagazine.in/health/kashmiri-separatist-leader-altaf-ahmad-shahs-daughter-says-he-is-denied-proper-healthcare-in-tihar |title=Kashmiri separatist leader Altaf Ahmad Shah's daughter says he is denied proper healthcare in Tihar |first=Ruwa |last=Shah |website=The Caravan |archive-date=17 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200617080316/https://caravanmagazine.in/health/kashmiri-separatist-leader-altaf-ahmad-shahs-daughter-says-he-is-denied-proper-healthcare-in-tihar |url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/fear-father-imprisoned-pandemic-stricken-india-200624091448725.html |title=I fear for my father imprisoned in pandemic-stricken India |first=Ruwa |last=Shah |website=www.aljazeera.com |archive-date=2 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902044014/https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2020/6/28/i-fear-for-my-father-imprisoned-in-pandemic-stricken-india/ |url-status=live}} She previously worked as a journalist in India with organisations including the Al Jazeera, IANS and The Indian Express.{{cite web |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/profile/ruwa-shah.html |title=Ruwa Shah |website=www.aljazeera.com |archive-date=6 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200606195708/https://www.aljazeera.com/profile/ruwa-shah.html |url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=https://indianexpress.com/profile/author/ruwa-shah/ |title=Ruwa Shah |date=2 March 2014 |archive-date=20 January 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180120082502/http://indianexpress.com/profile/author/ruwa-shah/ |url-status=live}}

Geelani's passport was seized in 1981 due to accusations of "anti-India" activities. With the exception of his Hajj pilgrimage in 2006, he has not been allowed to leave India.{{Update inline |date=October 2015}}{{cite news |title=Ailing Kashmiri separatist |newspaper=Gulf Times |url=http://www.gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no=2&item_no=136912&version=1&template_id=40&parent_id=22 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080614021621/http://www.gulf-times.com/site/topics/article.asp?cu_no=2&item_no=136912&version=1&template_id=40&parent_id=22 |archive-date=14 June 2008 }} He was diagnosed with renal cancer, and advised treatment from abroad in the same year. On the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's intervention, the government returned Geelani's passport to his son.{{cite web |url=http://www.indiadaily.com/editorial/16014.asp |title=IndiaDaily – Geelani applies for US visa for treatment in one of the specialist hospitals |archive-date=16 March 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070316103418/http://www.indiadaily.com/editorial/16014.asp |url-status=live}} In 2007, his condition worsened,{{cite web |url=http://www.kashmirdispatch.com/headlines/120321237-geelani-refuses-to-use-kashmir-govt-s-chopper.htm |title=Geelani refuses to use govt's chopper |date=12 January 2013 |publisher=Kashmir Dispatch |archive-date=13 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140313125032/http://www.kashmirdispatch.com/headlines/120321237-geelani-refuses-to-use-kashmir-govt-s-chopper.htm |url-status=live}} although in the early stages of the cancer, it was life-threatening and surgery was advised. Geelani was set to travel to either the UK or the United States.{{cite web |title=Cancer-hit Geelani awaits |publisher=India News |url=http://www.indiasnews.net/story/232351 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928094856/http://www.indiasnews.net/story/232351 |archive-date=28 September 2007 }} However, his visa request was rejected by the American government citing his violent approach in Kashmir conflict and he went to Mumbai for surgery. His supporters and family alleged that this was a "human rights violation".{{cite web |title=US visa denial is rights violation |publisher=India eNews |url=http://www.indiaenews.com/india/20070329/45196.htm |archive-date=27 September 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927185323/http://www.indiaenews.com/india/20070329/45196.htm |url-status=live }}

On 6 March 2014, Geelani fell ill with a severe chest infection, shortly after returning to his home in Srinagar.{{cite web |url=http://www.brecorder.com/general-news/172/1162433/ |title=Geelani flies to Delhi for treatment |publisher=Business Recorder |date=14 March 2014 |archive-date=15 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140315054317/http://www.brecorder.com/general-news/172/1162433/ |url-status=live}} He has been under house arrest for most of the time since 2010,{{cite web |url=http://freepresskashmir.com/is-ailing-geelani-leading-face-of-kashmirs-separatist-campaign-065510/ |title=Is Ailing Geelani Leading Face Of Kashmir's Separatist Campaign? |publisher=Free Kashmir |author=Kainaat Mushtaq |date=10 March 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140313094139/http://freepresskashmir.com/is-ailing-geelani-leading-face-of-kashmirs-separatist-campaign-065510/ |archive-date=13 March 2014}} and was put under house arrest again on his return.{{cite web |title=Syed Ali Shah Geelani ailing, to be flown to Delhi |url=http://paktribune.com/news/Syed-Ali-Shah-Geelani-ailing-to-be-flown-to-Delhi-267505.html |publisher=Pak Tribune |date=13 March 2014 |archive-date=15 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140315071006/http://paktribune.com/news/Syed-Ali-Shah-Geelani-ailing-to-be-flown-to-Delhi-267505.html |url-status=live}} In May 2015, Geelani applied for passport to visit his daughter in Saudi Arabia. The Indian government withheld it citing technical reasons, including the fact that he deliberately failed to fill in the nationality column required in the application.{{cite news |title=Geelani's passport plea after formalities completed: Rajnath |url=http://www.kashmirtimes.in/newsdet.aspx?q=41248 |newspaper=Kashmir Times |date=22 May 2015 |archive-date=26 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150526003816/http://www.kashmirtimes.in/newsdet.aspx?q=41248 |url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=Geelani's 'incomplete' passport application cannot be processed: MEA |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/geelanis-incomplete-passport-application-cannot-be-processed-mea/ |newspaper=Indian Express |date=22 May 2015 |archive-date=24 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150524010312/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/geelanis-incomplete-passport-application-cannot-be-processed-mea/ |url-status=live}} On 21 July, the Government granted him a passport on humanitarian grounds, with a validity of nine months, after Geelani acknowledged his nationality as an Indian.[http://www.firstpost.com/india/geelani-granted-passport-two-months-after-govt-rejected-application-2355482.html "Govt issues passport with 9 months validity to Hurriyat chief Syed Ali Shah Geelani – Firstpost"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722175352/http://www.firstpost.com/india/geelani-granted-passport-two-months-after-govt-rejected-application-2355482.html |date=22 July 2015 }}. firstpost.com. 22 July 2015.[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Govt-issues-passport-to-Hurriyat-leader-Syed-Ali-Shah-Geelani/articleshow/48163391.cms "Govt issues passport to Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150724151507/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Govt-issues-passport-to-Hurriyat-leader-Syed-Ali-Shah-Geelani/articleshow/48163391.cms |date=24 Ju2015 }}. The Times of India. 22 July 2015.

On 12 March 2014, rumors of Geelani's death, spread by edits to his Wikipedia entry, "a particular Hindi news channel", and pages on Facebook led the government of Kashmir to suspend internet and phone service, according to some sources.{{cite news |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/news-feed/jammusec/wikipedia-declares-geelani-dead-in-night-sends-kashmir-administration-into-tizzy/article1-1194114.aspx |title=Wikipedia declares Geelani dead, sends Kashmir admn into tizzy |author=Peerzada Ashiq |newspaper=Hindustan Times |date=12 March 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140313143239/http://www.hindustantimes.com/news-feed/jammusec/wikipedia-declares-geelani-dead-in-night-sends-kashmir-administration-into-tizzy/article1-1194114.aspx |archive-date=13 March 2014}}{{cite web |url=http://kashmirwatch.com/news.php/2014/03/12/8216-geelani-sahab-stable-don-8217-t-give-heed-to-rumours-8217.html |title=Geelani Sahab stable, Don't give heed to rumours |date=12 March 2014 |publisher=KashmirWatch |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312225406/http://kashmirwatch.com/news.php/2014/03/12/8216-geelani-sahab-stable-don-8217-t-give-heed-to-rumours-8217.html |archive-date=12 March 2014}}{{cite web |url=https://www.authintmail.com/article/kashmir/wikipedia-entry-sparks-rumors-geelanis-death-govt-responds-curtailing-mobile |title=Wikipedia entry sparks rumors of Geelani's death; Govt responds by curtailing mobile internet |work=Authint Mail |date=12 March 2014 |archive-date=12 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140312230826/https://www.authintmail.com/article/kashmir/wikipedia-entry-sparks-rumors-geelanis-death-govt-responds-curtailing-mobile |url-status=live}} However, the then Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said that the failures had nothing to do with Geelani's health and were due to a snapped power line as well as an optical fibre cut due to heavy snowfall, which left most of the valley without power. The cuts in Internet service, hours after a statement by Hurriyat that Geelani would be flown to New Delhi for medical treatment, were blamed for spreading the rumours.{{cite magazine |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/geelanis-health-sparks-conspiracy-rumours-across-kashmir/1/349288.html |title=Geelani's bad health sparks conspiracy rumours across Kashmir as communication lines falter |author=Naseer Ganai |magazine=India Today |date=13 January 2014 |archive-date=13 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140313065938/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/geelanis-health-sparks-conspiracy-rumours-across-kashmir/1/349288.html |url-status=live}}{{cite news |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/internet-outage-spurs-rumour-of-geelanis-death/ |title=Internet outage spurs rumour of Geelani's death |author=Bashirat Masood |newspaper=The Indian Express |date=13 March 2014 |archive-date=13 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140313122603/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/internet-outage-spurs-rumour-of-geelanis-death/ |url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://www.kashmirlife.net/few-inches-of-snow-exposed-government-says-pdp-cpim12032014/ |title='Few Inches' Of Snow Exposed Government, Says PDP, CPI(M) |publisher=Kashmir Life |date=12 March 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140315201723/http://www.kashmirlife.net/few-inches-of-snow-exposed-government-says-pdp-cpim12032014/ |archive-date=15 March 2014}}

After the 2019 Pulwama attack, India took stronger action against pro-Pakistan separatists including Geelani. The Enforcement Directorate levied a penalty of ₹14.40 lakh and ordered confiscation of nearly ₹6.8 lakh in connection with a Foreign Exchange Management Act case against him for illegal possession of foreign exchange.{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ed-slaps-1440-lakh-penalty-confiscates-68-lakh-in-fema-case-against-geelani/article26607536.ece |title=ED slaps ₹14.40 lakh penalty, confiscates ₹6.8 lakh in FEMA case against Geelani — The Hindu |newspaper=The Hindu |date=22 March 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190322102721/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/ed-slaps-1440-lakh-penalty-confiscates-68-lakh-in-fema-case-against-geelani/article26607536.ece |archive-date=22 March 2019}}

Geelani reportedly developed breathing complications and died on 1 September 2021 at his Hyderpora residence in Srinagar due to his prolonged illness.{{cite news |author1=Ashraf Wani |author2=Kamaljit Kaur Sandhu |title=Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani dies in Srinagar |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/jammu-kashmir-leader-syed-ali-shah-geelani-died-srinagar-1848181-2021-09-01 |newspaper=India Today |date=2 September 2021 |access-date=1 September 2021 |archive-date=1 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210901200157/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/jammu-kashmir-leader-syed-ali-shah-geelani-died-srinagar-1848181-2021-09-01 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Kashmir's Hurriyat Leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani Passes Away |url=https://thechenabtimes.com/2021/09/02/kashmirs-hurriyat-leader-syed-ali-shah-geelani-passes-away/ |date=1 September 2021 |publisher=The Chenab Times |archive-date=1 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210901202552/https://thechenabtimes.com/2021/09/02/kashmirs-hurriyat-leader-syed-ali-shah-geelani-passes-away/ |url-status=live}}{{cite news |last=Ashiq |first=Peerzada |date=2 September 2021 |title=Separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani dies after prolonged illness |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/separatist-leader-syed-ali-shah-geelani-dies-after-prolonged-illness/article36238483.ece |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=1 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210901185412/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/separatist-leader-syed-ali-shah-geelani-dies-after-prolonged-illness/article36238483.ece |url-status=live}}

His son Naseem alleged that police raided the house, took the body forcibly and buried it in a graveyard in his Hyderpora locality in the middle of the night.{{cite news |last=Ehsan |first=Mir |date=2 September 2021 |title=Kashmir locked down as Syed Ali Shah Geelani gets quiet burial |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/geelanis-family-alleges-forced-burial-at-night-amid-clampdown-in-kashmir-101630587012385.html |access-date=5 September 2021 |archive-date=5 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905101842/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/geelanis-family-alleges-forced-burial-at-night-amid-clampdown-in-kashmir-101630587012385.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Tantray |first=Shahid |title=The night that Kashmir's Syed Ali Shah Geelani died |url=https://caravanmagazine.in/politics/kashmir-syed-ali-shah-geelani-death-burial |access-date=2023-09-01 |website=The Caravan |language=en |archive-date=5 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905181149/https://caravanmagazine.in/politics/kashmir-syed-ali-shah-geelani-death-burial |url-status=live }} According to Naseem, no one from the close family was allowed to attend the burial, but they visited the grave next morning. Dilbag Singh, the Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police, however denied the allegations.{{cite news |last1=Iqbal |first1=Naveed |last2=Masood |first2=Bashaarat |date=3 September 2021 |title=Syed Ali Shah Geelani laid to rest, police deny family's claims of being kept out |language=en-IN |work=The Indian Express |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/syed-ali-shah-geelani-laid-to-rest-police-deny-familys-claims-of-being-kept-out-7485650/ |access-date=5 September 2021 |archive-date=5 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905105911/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/syed-ali-shah-geelani-laid-to-rest-police-deny-familys-claims-of-being-kept-out-7485650/ |url-status=live }}

Restrictions on travel and internet were imposed in Kashmir soon after Geelani's death.{{cite news |last=Wani |first=Fayaz |date=2 September 2021 |title=Restrictions imposed in Kashmir, mobile services shut as separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani laid to rest |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2021/sep/02/restrictions-imposed-in-kashmirmobile-services-shut-as-separatist-leader-syed-ali-geelani-laid-to-2353209.html |access-date=5 September 2021 |archive-date=5 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905104120/https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2021/sep/02/restrictions-imposed-in-kashmirmobile-services-shut-as-separatist-leader-syed-ali-geelani-laid-to-2353209.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Malik |first=Saqib |date=4 September 2021 |title=Mobile telephony, broadband services restored across Kashmir |language=en-IN |work=Greater Kashmir |url=https://www.greaterkashmir.com/todays-paper/front-page/mobile-telephony-broadband-services-restored-across-kashmir |access-date=5 September 2021 |archive-date=5 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905104120/https://www.greaterkashmir.com/todays-paper/front-page/mobile-telephony-broadband-services-restored-across-kashmir |url-status=live }} On 2 September 2021, FIR was registered against his family members under UAPA for clothing his body with a Pakistani flag and for allegedly raising “anti-national” slogans.{{cite news |last=Masoodi |first=Nazir |date=4 September 2021 |title=Videos Show Syed Ali Shah Geelani's Body In Pak Flag, Police Case Filed |language=en-IN |work=NDTV |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/videos-show-syed-ali-shah-geelanis-body-in-pak-flag-police-case-filed-2529999 |access-date=5 September 2021 |archive-date=5 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905014759/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/videos-show-syed-ali-shah-geelanis-body-in-pak-flag-police-case-filed-2529999 |url-status=live }}

Kashmiri political leaders,{{cite news |date=2 September 2021 |title=Kashmir separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani passes away; Mehbooba Mufti and others offer condolences |language=en-IN |work=Firspost |url=https://www.firstpost.com/india/kashmir-separatist-leader-syed-ali-shah-geelani-passes-away-mehbooba-mufti-and-others-offer-condolences-9931231.html |access-date=5 September 2021 }}{{cite news |date=5 September 2021 |title=Dr Farooq, Omar Abdullah condole Geelani's demise |language=en-IN |work=Rising Kashmir |url=https://www.risingkashmir.com/-Dr-Farooq--Omar-Abdullah-condole-Geelani-s-demise-91477 |access-date=5 September 2021 |archive-date=4 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210904233722/https://www.risingkashmir.com/-Dr-Farooq--Omar-Abdullah-condole-Geelani-s-demise-91477 |url-status=live }} as well as members of Government of Pakistan, condoled his death. Prime Minister Imran Khan ordered flags to be flown at half-mast to mourn his death.{{cite news |date=2 September 2021 |title=Pakistan observes day of mourning over Kashmiri separatist leader Geelani's demise |language=en-IN |work=Press Trust of India |publisher=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/pakistan-observes-day-of-mourning-over-kashmiri-separatist-leader-geelanis-demise/article36243407.ece |access-date=5 September 2021 |archive-date=5 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905112011/https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/pakistan-observes-day-of-mourning-over-kashmiri-separatist-leader-geelanis-demise/article36243407.ece |url-status=live }}

On 14 August 2020, Pakistani President Arif Alvi conferred Nishan-e-Pakistan, Pakistan's highest civil award on Geelani to recognise his decades-long struggle for Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.{{cite news |title=Geelani conferred with Pakistan's highest civil award |url=https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/700761-geelani-conferred-with-pakistan-s-highest-civil-award |work=The News International |agency=Associated Press of Pakistan |date=15 August 2020}}

In February 2014, he said prisoners in Kashmir "are the victims of custodial violence and are harassed in Indian jails especially in Tihar Jail" after an incident where parents of Javaid Ahmad Khan, serving a life sentence, "had travelled thousands of kilometres and invested a lot of money to reach Delhi to meet their jailed son but were denied a meeting with him. "This is state terrorism", he said.{{cite news |url=http://www.kashmirtimes.in/newsdet.aspx?q=29031 |title=Geelani, Malik condemn misbehaviour of Tihar jail officials |newspaper=Kashmir Times |date=15 February 2014 |archive-date=15 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140315173429/http://www.kashmirtimes.in/newsdet.aspx?q=29031 |url-status=live}}

He is viewed as sympathetic to Jamat-e-Islami.{{cite web |url=http://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/2014/Mar/15/geelani-before-and-beyond-8.asp |title=GEELANI: Before and Beyond |author=Mehmood Ur Rashid |date=15 March 2014 |archive-date=15 March 2014 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140315124932/http://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/2014/Mar/15/geelani-before-and-beyond-8.asp |url-status=live}} His official residence was viewed as Jamat property before he donated it to the Milli Trust.{{cite web |url=http://www.kashmirobserver.net/news/top-news/hurriyat-g-says-jamaat-claims-unethical |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140315134437/http://www.kashmirobserver.net/news/top-news/hurriyat-g-says-jamaat-claims-unethical |url-status=dead |archive-date=15 March 2014 |title=Hurriyat (G) says Jama'at claims unethical |publisher=Kashmir Observer |date=15 March 2014}}

Geelani called Islamist leader and founder of the Jamaat-e-Islami, Abul A'la Maududi his mentor.

In November 2011, Geelani called for protests against the alleged "objectionable anti-Islamic" content on the social networking website Facebook, which he described as a "satanic audacity". His call triggered protests in various parts of the Kashmir valley, leading to minor clashes between the protestors and the security forces.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Protests-in-Kashmir-against-blasphemy-on-Facebook/articleshow/10783138.cms |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717111543/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2011-11-18/india/30414238_1_networking-site-anti-islamic-maisuma |url-status=live |archive-date=17 July 2012 |title=Protests in Kashmir against 'blasphemy' on Facebook |author=M Saleem Pandit |newspaper=The Times of India |date=18 November 2011 }}

Geelani condemned the killing of Osama bin Laden by the US.{{cite web |url=http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=236303 |title=Geelani lone Kashmiri leader to condemn Osama killing |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110508211944/http://mangalorean.com/news.php?newstype=local&newsid=236303 |archive-date=8 May 2011 }} After Bin Laden's death in May 2011, Geelani said that he would lead last rite prayers in absentia in Srinagar for the slain al-Qaeda leader.{{cite web |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-05-06/news/29516968_1_bin-funeral-prayers-syed-geelani |title=Osama dead: Tehreek-e-Hurriyat chairman Syed Geelani to lead last rite prayers for Osama bin Laden|publisher=Times of India |date=6 May 2011 |archive-date=3 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150403060853/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2011-05-06/news/29516968_1_bin-funeral-prayers-syed-geelani |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Hurriyat-Conferences-Syed-Ali-Shah-Geelani-calls-for-funeral-prayers-for-Osama-bin-Laden/articleshow/8169912.cms |title=Hurriyat Conference's Syed Ali Shah Geelani calls for funeral prayers for Osama bin Laden — The Times of India |work=The Times of India |date=5 May 2011 |archive-date=14 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161014173707/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Hurriyat-Conferences-Syed-Ali-Shah-Geelani-calls-for-funeral-prayers-for-Osama-bin-Laden/articleshow/8169912.cms |url-status=live }} After holding prayers for Osama in congregation of thousands of Kashmiris, a European Union delegation snubbed Geelani by cancelling a scheduled meeting with him.{{cite web |author=Muzaffar Raina |url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110517/jsp/nation/story_13992053.jsp |title=The Telegraph — Calcutta (Kolkata) | Nation | EU Osama snub to Geelani |publisher=Telegraphindia.com |date=17 May 2011 |archive-date=2 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402170636/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110517/jsp/nation/story_13992053.jsp |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/eu-delegation-snubs-geelani-cancels-scheduled-meeting/article1-697857.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402144119/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/eu-delegation-snubs-geelani-cancels-scheduled-meeting/article1-697857.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=2 April 2015 |title=EU delegation snubs Geelani; cancels scheduled meeting |publisher=Hindustantimes.com |date=15 May 2011}}{{cite web |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/prayers-for-osama-eu-delegation-snubs-geelani-cancels-meeting/791097/ |title='Prayers for Osama': EU delegation snubs Geelani, cancels meeting — Indian Express |publisher=Archive.indianexpress.com |date=15 May 2011 |archive-date=4 April 2015 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150404165118/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/prayers-for-osama-eu-delegation-snubs-geelani-cancels-meeting/791097/ |url-status=live }} He further supported 2001 Indian Parliament attack accused Afzal Guru{{cite web |url=http://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/2015/Feb/6/geelani-malik-shah-call-for-shutdown-on-feb-9-11-61.asp |title=Geelani, Malik, Shah call for shutdown on Feb 9/11 |archive-date=2 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402132621/http://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/2015/Feb/6/geelani-malik-shah-call-for-shutdown-on-feb-9-11-61.asp }} and one of 2008 Mumbai Attacks masterminds and Lashkar-e-Taiba chief Hafiz Saeed.{{cite web |url=http://www.kashmirdispatch.com/headlines/240128940-geelani-expresses-displeasure-over-ban-on-hafiz-saeed-s-group.htm |title=Geelani expresses displeasure over ban on Hafiz Saeed's group — Latest Kashmir News & Analysis |publisher=Kashmir Dispatch |date=24 January 2015 |archive-date=2 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402122952/http://www.kashmirdispatch.com/headlines/240128940-geelani-expresses-displeasure-over-ban-on-hafiz-saeed-s-group.htm |url-status=live }}

Geelani said that while Pakistan supported "the indigenous struggle of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, morally, diplomatically and politically ... this does not mean Pakistan can take a decision on our behalf."{{cite web |author=Asad Hashim |title=Profile: Syed Ali Shah Geelani |publisher=Al Jazeera English |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/spotlight/kashmirtheforgottenconflict/2011/07/201171133554689430.html |access-date=7 March 2015 |archive-date=2 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402073950/https://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/spotlight/kashmirtheforgottenconflict/2011/07/201171133554689430.html |url-status=live }}

Geelani would only support a dialogue process aimed at resolving Kashmir issue in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of the people of the state. But he believed that dialogue between India and Pakistan starts under diplomatic compulsions, and it is nothing but just a time delaying tactics. He was of the opinion that Kashmiris are not enemies of India or hold any grudge against its inhabitants. We are desirous of a strong India and Pakistan and it is only possible when Kashmir issue is resolved to pave the way for peace, prosperity and development in the region.{{cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/news/report/will-support-talks-if-it-resolves-kashmir-issue-geelani/20150320.htm |title=Will support talks if it resolves Kashmir issue: Geelani — Rediff.com India News |work=Rediff.com |date=20 March 2015 |archive-date=29 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150529203835/http://www.rediff.com/news/report/will-support-talks-if-it-resolves-kashmir-issue-geelani/20150320.htm |url-status=live }}

He said, "Kashmir is not any border dispute between India and Pakistan which they can solve by bilateral understandings. It is the issue concerning future of 15 million people. The Hurriyat is not in principle against a dialogue process but without involvement of Kashmiri people, such a process has proved meaningless in the past. We don't have any expectations of it being fruitful in future too."{{cite web |url=http://www.sabahnews.net/kashmir/aphc-to-support-dialogue-if-sacrifices-of-kashmiris-honored-geelani/ |title=APHC to support dialogue if sacrifices of Kashmiris honored: Geelani |publisher=SABAH News |date=20 June 2014 |archive-date=30 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151130083446/http://www.sabahnews.net/kashmir/aphc-to-support-dialogue-if-sacrifices-of-kashmiris-honored-geelani/ |url-status=live }} He further stated, "India should immediately and unconditionally release political prisoners, and withdraw cases against youth, which are pending in the courts for the past 20 years."{{cite news |url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/india-should-accept-five-conditions-on-kashmir-geelani-115032300904_1.html |title=India should accept five conditions on Kashmir: Geelani | Business Standard News |newspaper=Business Standard India |publisher=Business-standard.com |date=23 March 2015 |archive-date=26 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150526010343/http://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/india-should-accept-five-conditions-on-kashmir-geelani-115032300904_1.html |url-status=live }}

Geelani has been repeatedly criticised by Indian authorities for inciting violence in the Kashmir Valley and working as offshoot of Pakistan.[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Protests-outside-Pakistani-high-commission-as-separatist-leaders-Yasin-Malik-and-Syed-Ali-Shah-Geelani-meet-envoy-Abdul-Basit/articleshow/40396781.cms "Protests outside Pakistani high commission as separatist leaders Yasin Malik and Syed Ali Shah Geelani meet envoy Abdul Basit"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140822063434/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Protests-outside-Pakistani-high-commission-as-separatist-leaders-Yasin-Malik-and-Syed-Ali-Shah-Geelani-meet-envoy-Abdul-Basit/articleshow/40396781.cms |date=22 August 2014 }}. The Times of India. Geelani said openly that he was not Indian. "Travelling on the Indian passport is a compulsion of every Kashmiri as Kashmir is an Internationally accepted Disputed region between India and Pakistan" are his words when applying for Indian Passport.[http://www.firstpost.com/india/i-am-not-indian-by-birth-its-a-compulsion-says-geelani-2281434.html "'Not Indian by birth, passport a compulsion': Govt slams Geelani's 'separatist jargon' – Firstpost"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150921094118/http://www.firstpost.com/india/i-am-not-indian-by-birth-its-a-compulsion-says-geelani-2281434.html |date=21 September 2015 }}. firstpost.com. 5 June 2015.{{cite web |url=https://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/kashmir/not-an-indian-by-birth-geelani-says-getting-indian-passport-compulsion/ |title='Not an Indian by birth', Geelani says getting Indian passport 'compulsion' |date=5 June 2015 |website=Greater Kashmir |archive-date=2 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210902044015/https://www.greaterkashmir.com/news/kashmir/not-an-indian-by-birth-geelani-says-getting-indian-passport-compulsion/ |url-status=live}}[http://www.firstpost.com/india/after-i-am-not-an-indian-by-birth-comment-geelani-calls-for-anti-india-seminar-in-srinagar-2286566.html "After 'I am not an Indian by birth' comment, Geelani calls for anti-India seminar in Srinagar – Firstpost"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150902133151/http://www.firstpost.com/india/after-i-am-not-an-indian-by-birth-comment-geelani-calls-for-anti-india-seminar-in-srinagar-2286566.html |date=2 September 2015 }}. firstpost.com. 9 June 2015. "We are Pakistani; Pakistan is ours,"[https://web.archive.org/web/20150930132951/http://beta.paknationalists.com/kashmir%E2%80%99s-geelani-we-are-pakistanis-pakistan-is-ours/ "Account Suspended"]. paknationalists.com. Retrieved on 23 July 2016. he said in a big gathering of his supporters.

While Geelani's personal opinion about Kashmir was that it be merged with Pakistan, he stood up against both Indian and Pakistani governments, including former President of Pakistan Pervez Musharraf, who did not support Kashmiri people's right to self-determination.{{Citation |last=Jeelani |first=Mehboob |date=2010-09-01 |title=How defiance made Syed Ali Geelani relevant in Kashmir |newspaper=The Caravan |url=https://caravanmagazine.in/reportage/man-who-says-no-new-delhi |url-access=subscription |access-date=5 September 2021 |archive-date=5 September 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905181149/https://caravanmagazine.in/reportage/man-who-says-no-new-delhi |url-status=live }}{{cite web |last=Tantray |first=Shahid |date=2021-09-05 |title=The night that Kashmir's Syed Ali Shah Geelani died |newspaper=The Caravan |url=https://caravanmagazine.in/politics/kashmir-syed-ali-shah-geelani-death-burial |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210905180606/https://caravanmagazine.in/politics/kashmir-syed-ali-shah-geelani-death-burial |archive-date=2021-09-05}}

Sheikh Mustafa Kamal, a senior leader of Jammu & Kashmir National Conference and son of Sheikh Abdullah criticised Geelani for working on "dictations" given by Pakistan. He accused Geelani of being "a double agent" on "the payroll of Pakistan's ISI".[http://www.outlookindia.com/news/article/Geelani-on-ISI-Payroll-NC-Leader/768901 "Geelani on ISI Payroll: NC Leader"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402162115/http://www.outlookindia.com/news/article/Geelani-on-ISI-Payroll-NC-Leader/768901 |date=2 April 2015 }}. outlookindia.com.[http://daily.bhaskar.com/news/NAT-TOP-geelani-on-payroll-of-isi-says-nc-leader-3529449.html "Geelani on payroll of ISI, says NC leader"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402162837/http://daily.bhaskar.com/news/NAT-TOP-geelani-on-payroll-of-isi-says-nc-leader-3529449.html |date=2 April 2015 }}. bhaskar.com.[https://archive.today/20150316105439/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/geelani-on-payroll-of-isi-says-nc-leader/271529-37-64.html "Geelani on payroll of ISI, says NC leader"]. in.com. 16 July 2012. Retrieved on 23 July 2016.

Pakistan also openly supported Geelani, the three-member delegation from Pakistan High Commission led by Abdul Basit met Geelani at his Malviya Nagar residence in March 2015. Pakistan High Commissioner Abdul Basit assured Geelani of complete support conveying that the country's stand on Kashmir remains unchanged despite regime change in New Delhi.Dawn.com, (9 March 2015). [http://www.dawn.com/news/1168445 "Pakistani high commissioner meets Hurriyat leader Geelani"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150312101701/http://www.dawn.com/news/1168445 |date=12 March 2015 }}. dawn.com.[http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pakistan-assures-syed-ali-geelani-of-complete-support-2067448 "Pakistan assures Syed Ali Geelani of complete support |Latest News & Updates at Daily News & Analysis"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402123412/http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-pakistan-assures-syed-ali-geelani-of-complete-support-2067448 |date=2 April 2015 }}. dnaindia.com. 10 March 2015{{cite web |url=http://www.asianage.com/india/pakistan-mischief-again-envoy-meets-syed-ali-geelani-429 |title=Pakistan mischief again: Envoy meets Syed Ali Geelani | the Asian Age |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402113543/http://www.asianage.com/india/pakistan-mischief-again-envoy-meets-syed-ali-geelani-429 |archive-date=2 April 2015 }} Abdul Basit also invited Geelani for Pakistan Day function on 23 March. Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, ritually invites pro-separatist leadership of Jammu and Kashmir. On 14 August, the Pakistani government awarded him its highest civilian award, the Nishan-e-Pakistan.{{cite web |title=President Alvi confers Nishan-e-Pakistan on Kashmiri leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani |newspaper=The News International |date=14 August 2020 |url=https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/700497-president-alvi-confers-nishan-e-pakistan-to-kashmiri-leader-syed-ali-shah-gilani |access-date=14 August 2020 |archive-date=14 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200814122446/https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/700497-president-alvi-confers-nishan-e-pakistan-to-kashmiri-leader-syed-ali-shah-gilani |url-status=live }}

In the last few decades, Geelani refused any proposal from Governments of India and Pakistan and was consistent in his demand for the United Nations promised plebiscite of 1948.

Some of his works include:[https://worldcat.org/identities/lccn-n89136268/ Syed Ali Shah Geelani's profile] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306044715/https://worldcat.org/identities/lccn-n89136268/ |date=6 March 2019 }} on WorldCat{{cite web|title=::All Parties Hurriyat Conference APHC Syed Ali Geelani Kashmir News Updates World ::|url=http://www.huriyatconference.com/?JgBEAHUAcgBhAHQAaQBvAG4APQBUAGgAZQAgAEYAbwB1AG4AZABlAHIALgBhAHMAcAB4AGgAZwBkAGMAcwBqAGgAZwBzAGQAagBoAGYAZwBzAC0ANQA=-3xOCiJtUsuw=|access-date=2022-10-18|website=www.huriyatconference.com|archive-date=6 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230606124316/http://www.huriyatconference.com/?JgBEAHUAcgBhAHQAaQBvAG4APQBUAGgAZQAgAEYAbwB1AG4AZABlAHIALgBhAHMAcAB4AGgAZwBkAGMAcwBqAGgAZwBzAGQAagBoAGYAZwBzAC0ANQA%3D-3xOCiJtUsuw%3D|url-status=live}}

• Rūdād-i qafas ({{Translation|Story of jailhouse}}), 1993. Author's memoirs of his imprisonment.
• Navā-yi ḥurriyyat ({{Translation|Voice of Hurriyat}}), 1994. Collection of letters, columns and interviews on Kashmir issue.
• Dīd o shunīd ({{Translation|Acquaintance}}), 2005. Compilation based on answers to the various questions relating to Kashmir issue.
• Bhārat ke istiʻmārī ḥarbe! : Kurālah Gunḍ se Jodhpūr tak! ({{Translation|India's colonial wars: From Kralgund to Jodhpur}}), 2006. Autobiographical reminiscences with special reference to his struggle for the liberation of Kashmir.
• Sadāʼe dard : majmuvʻah taqārīr ({{Translation|Cry of pain: collection of speeches}}), 2006. Collection of speeches on Kashmir issue.
• Millat-i maz̤lūm ({{Translation|Nation of oppressed}}), 2006. Collection of articles and columns on various issues of Jammu and Kashmir with special reference to autonomy and independence movements of Kashmir.
• Safar-i Maḥmūd z̲ikr-i maẓlūm ({{Translation|Journey of the commendable account of the oppressed}}), 2007. Compilation based on answers to the various questions relating to Kashmir issue.
• Maqtal se vāpsī : Rāncī jail ke shab o roz ({{Translation|Back from the gallows: night and day in Ranchi jail}}), 2008. Autobiographical reminiscences.
• Iqbāl rūḥ-i dīn kā shanāsā ({{Translation|Acquaintance with Iqbal's spirit of religion}}), 2009. Study on the works of Muhammad Iqbal.
• ʻĪdain ({{Translation|Eids}}), 2011. Collection of sermons delivered on the occasion of Eid ul Fitr, Eid ul Adha, and Friday prayers.
• Vullar kināre : āp bītī ({{Translation|By the Wular: autobiography}}), 2012. Autobiography.
• Qissa e Dard ({{Translation|Account of pain}})
• Muqadma al-haq ({{Translation|Trial of truth}})
• Tu baaki nahi ({{Translation|You are no more}})
• Mera pyaar aur hai ({{Translation|My love is something else}})
• Talkh haqayak ({{Translation|Bitter truth}})
• Elaan-e jungbandi ({{Translation|Declaration of armistice}})
• Hijrat aur shahadat ({{Translation|Migration and martyrdom}})
• Qurbani ({{Translation|Sacrifice}})
• Umeed-i bahar ({{Translation|Hope of spring}})
• Payam-e aakhreen ({{Translation|The final message}})

• A letter to V.P. Singh.
• A letter to Chandra Shekhar.

Source:

• Vinoba Bhave se mulaqaat ({{Translation|A meeting with Vinoba Bhave}}). Pamphlet, about a meeting with Indian social reformer Vinoba Bhave.
• Aulaad-e Ibrahim ({{Translation|Children of Abraham}}). Pamphlet.
• Ek pahlu yeh bhi hai Kashmir ki tasvir ka ({{Translation|Another aspect of Kashmir's affairs}}). Pamphlet.
• Qaul-e-Faisal ({{Translation|Final judgment}})
• 11 September ke baad ({{Translation|After 9/11}})
• Rasool-e rahmat aasir-i hazir main ({{Translation|Prophet Muhammad in present times}})
• Iqbal apni paygam ki roshni mein ({{Translation|Iqbal in light of his message}})
• Shayad ki utar jaaye tere dil mein meri baat ({{Translation|Maybe you will understand me}})
• Wa'tasimu bihablillahi jamia ({{CiteQuran Ayah|3|103|b=yl|c=y}})
• Shahadat Gahe Ulfat ({{Translation|Martyred in love}})
• Rahravani ishq ({{Translation|Travelers of love}})
• Kunu Ansarullah ({{Translation|Willing helpers of Allah}})
• Kar-i jahan be-sabaat ({{Translation|Unstable world affairs}})
• Kargil

Source:

• Insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir
• All Parties Hurriyat Conference
• Joint Resistance Leadership
• Asiya Andrabi

{{notelist}}

{{Reflist}}

• {{cite journal |last1=Garner |first1=George |title=Chechnya and Kashmir: The Jihadist Evolution of Nationalism to Jihad and Beyond |journal=Terrorism and Political Violence |volume=25 |issue=3 |year=2013 |pages=419–434 |issn=0954-6553 |doi=10.1080/09546553.2012.664202 |s2cid=143798822 |ref={{sfnref|Garner, Chechnya and Kashmir: The Jihadist Evolution|2013}}}}
• {{citation |last=Hakeem |first=Abdul |title=Paradise on Fire: Syed Ali Geelani and the Struggle for Freedom in Kashmir |publisher=Revival Publications |location=Markfield, Leicestershire, UK |year=2014 |isbn=978-0-9536768-6-6 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2BPFAwAAQBAJ&pg=PT25 |ref={{sfnref|Hakeem, Paradise on Fire|2014}}}}
• {{citation |last=Jamal |first=Arif |title=Shadow War: The Untold Story of Jihad in Kashmir |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=TNO5MAAACAAJ |year=2009 |publisher=Melville House |isbn=978-1-933633-59-6 |ref={{sfnref|Jamal, Shadow War|2009}}}}
• {{citation |first=Yoginder |last=Sikand |author-link=Yoginder Sikand |title=The Emergence and Development of the Jama'at-i-Islami of Jammu and Kashmir (1940s-1990) |journal=Modern Asian Studies |volume=36 |pages=705–751 |number=3 |date=July 2002 |jstor=3876651 |doi=10.1017/s0026749x02003062|s2cid=145586329 |ref={{sfnref|Sikand, Jama'at-i-Islami of Jammu and Kashmir|2002}}}}
• {{citation |title=Jihad, Islam and Kashmir: Syed Ali Shah Geelani's Political Project |first=Yoginder |last=Sikand |author-link=Yoginder Sikand |journal=Economic and Political Weekly |date=2-8 October 2010 |volume=45 |number=40 |pages=125–134 |jstor=25742155 |ref={{sfnref|Sikand, Jihad Islam and Kashmir|2010}}}}

{{Jammu and Kashmir freedom movement}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Geelani, Syed Ali Shah}}

Category:1929 births

Category:2021 deaths

Category:Indian Islamists

Category:20th-century Indian Muslims

Category:21st-century Indian Muslims

Category:Kashmiri politicians

Category:Kashmiri Muslims

Category:Kashmir separatist movement

Category:Independent politicians from Jammu and Kashmir

Category:People from Baramulla district

Category:Oriental College alumni

Category:Indian writers

Category:Kashmiri writers

Category:Writers from Jammu and Kashmir

Category:Jammu and Kashmir MLAs 1972–1977

Category:Jammu and Kashmir MLAs 1977–1983

Category:Jammu and Kashmir MLAs 1987–1996

Category:Inmates of Tihar Jail

Category:Indian people imprisoned on terrorism charges

Category:Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir politicians