Aijaz Guru, Brother of Parliament Attack Convict to Contest Polls In North Kashmir

Srinagar, Sep 9: Aijaz Guru, the brother of Parliament attack convict Muhammad Afzal Guru, has entered the race for the Sopore assembly seat.

His candidacy marks a significant shift as the separatist factions, including those affiliated with Jamaat-e-Islami, have decided to participate in mainstream politics.

Muhammad Afzal Guru, who was Aijaz’s brother, was a well-known Kashmiri separatist convicted for his role in the 2001 Indian Parliament attack.

The Supreme Court had upheld the capital punishment awarded to Afzal Guru. President of India has also rejected his mercy petition, leading to his execution on 9 February 2013.

Aijaz Guru’s participation in mainstream politics reflects the broader transformation taking place in Kashmir.

“This transition marks the end of an era of separatism in Kashmir, as these once-militant voices now seek representation within the framework of Indian democracy,” said a political analyst.