Shabir Shah’s bail denial ‘disappointing, unjust’, Centre should ensure his release: Mirwaiz

Kashmir chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has criticized the NIA court's decision to deny bail to separatist leader Shabir Shah. The Mirwaiz highlighted Shah's deteriorating health and long-term incarceration as reasons for his immediate release.
Why it matters
The case underscores ongoing tensions regarding political prisoners and human rights in the Kashmir region.
Kashmir chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Wednesday (October 7, 2026) said he was “deeply concerned over the rejection of bail to separatist leader Shabir Shah by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) court.
“The NIA move to deny bail is deeply disappointing and unjust. Despite the Supreme Court granting Mr. Shah bail in March this year, his incarceration continues after nearly four decades spent in prisons without conviction,” said the Mirwaiz.
The Mirwaiz said the “prolonged detention of Mr. Shah has seriously affected his health. “Mr. Shah requires urgent medical attention and the care of his family,” said the Mirwaiz.
“I appeal to the Government of India, opposition leaders, civil society and all those who believe in human dignity and the right to difference of opinion to ensure the release of these prisoners and their return to their families,” he added.
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