Azad Kashmir's prominent religious scholar and JUI leader Maulana Professor Altaf Hussain Siddiqui passed away after a long illness on Wednesday, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Upon hearing the news of his death, the atmosphere in the entire Azad Kashmir including Jhelum Valley became mournful, while deep sorrow and grief were expressed in religious, political and social circles.
Maulana Siddiqui belonged to Lasdahar, a village near Hattian Bala.
He had been ill for several months and was undergoing treatment. However, despite his illness, he continued to perform religious services.
His funeral prayers will be held today at 3 pm at the University Grounds Hattian Bala and the burial will be held at his native village Lasdahar.
The Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Azad Jammu and Kashmir leader held important responsibilities and was active in the religious, social and political fields as the Ameer and Patron-in-Chief of Muzaffarabad Division.
Maulana Siddiqui was also the head of the famous religious school Jamia Taalim-ul-Quran for Boys and Girls in Hattian Bala.
His academic and teaching services are valued in religious circles. He was also known as an excellent orator and a fearless leader. He contested general election for AJK Assembly in 2021.
He also had a clear stance on the Kashmir issue and continued to highlight the right of self-determination of the Kashmiri people through his speeches.
Reporter: Mubarak Hassan Awan