Srinagar, Nov 15 (KNS): Veteran journalist, noted writer and founder-editor of the Urdu daily Srinagar Times, Sofi Ghulam Mohammad, will be remembered on his 17th death anniversary on November 16, with members of the journalistic, literary and social communities paying tribute to his contribution to journalism in Kashmir.

Sofi Ghulam Mohammad, who passed away on November 16, 2009, devoted nearly five decades of his life to journalism and played an important role in the development of the Urdu press in Kashmir.

He founded Srinagar Times in 1969 and earned recognition for his independent editorial approach, writings on public issues and commitment to journalism.

During his long career, he highlighted social concerns, public grievances and issues affecting ordinary people through his editorials and other writings.

Besides journalism, he maintained a close association with Urdu literature, reflecting his interest in the language and its literary traditions.

Paying tribute to the late journalist, Kashmir News Service (KNS) Editor-in-Chief Mohammad Aslam Bhat recalled his close association with the news agency and his continued interest in its work.

Bhat said Sofi Ghulam Mohammad had always appreciated the journalistic standards and impartial approach of Kashmir News Service and frequently offered guidance and encouragement.

"Sofi Sahib had a deep association with Kashmir News Service. He always appreciated our work, particularly our commitment to maintaining journalistic standards and impartiality," Bhat said.

Recalling his dedication to journalism, Bhat said the veteran editor would often wait until late at night for the KNS news bulletin and seek updates on important developments.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

"He would wait for our bulletins late into the night. Whenever there was an important development, he would remain in touch and ask for updates. Such was his commitment to news and journalism," Bhat recalled.

He said Sofi Ghulam Mohammad had also referred to Kashmir News Service in his writings on several occasions, reflecting the professional relationship he maintained with the agency.

Bhat said the death of the veteran journalist had left a void in Kashmir's journalistic community, but his contribution continued to inspire those associated with the profession.

He also appreciated the present editorial team of Srinagar Times for continuing the publication and carrying forward the institution established by its founder.

"Although his passing left a void, the manner in which the present editorial team is running Srinagar Times deserves appreciation. They are carrying forward an institution that Sofi Sahib built through years of dedication," Bhat said.

He said Sofi Ghulam Mohammad would be remembered for his commitment to journalism, his independent thinking and his contribution to the growth of the Urdu press in Kashmir.

Members of the journalistic community also paid tribute to the late editor and remembered his services to the profession.

On the eve of his 17th death anniversary, Bhat prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul and conveyed his respects to the family and colleagues of the veteran journalist. (KNS)