SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah Monday paid rich tributes to Shayar-e-Mashriq, Alama Dr. Sir Sheikh Muhammad Iqbal on the occasion of his 88th death anniversary.
In his message, Dr. Farooq described Allama Iqbal as a towering philosophical poet, visionary thinker and a deeply compassionate figure concerned with the plight of the people. He highlighted the historic association between Iqbal and Sher-e-Kashmir, noting that both leaders shared a strong commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Allama Iqbal’s political thought centered on the reform and upliftment of Muslim societies,” Dr. Farooq said. “His vision, along with his concept of the ‘higher self,’ inspired Sher-e-Kashmir to dedicate himself to transforming the lives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.”
He further noted that this inspiration translated into landmark initiatives such as the “Land to the Tiller” reforms, abolition of large estates, gender-neutral voting rights, free education, women’s emancipation, and universal adult franchise. These progressive measures, he said, were aimed at leading society from despondency toward prosperity.
Dr. Farooq emphasized that the ideals of Allama Iqbal continue to guide leaders and citizens alike in their pursuit of social justice, equality, and progress.