Srinagar, Nov 04, KDC: Senior journalist Tariq Ahmad Bhat, the Jammu and Kashmir Bureau Head of The Week magazine, passed away on Tuesday following a massive cardiac arrest, leaving behind a legacy of integrity and professionalism that inspired generations of reporters.
Bhat, who dedicated over three decades to journalism, was known for his balanced reportage, sharp insight, and unwavering commitment to truth. Throughout his career, he contributed significantly to national and regional media, chronicling the complex political and social realities of Jammu and Kashmir with rare depth and clarity.
In Srinagar’s Chotta Bazar, scores of journalists, colleagues, and admirers bid a tearful adieu as Bhat’s Janazah prayers were held. Members of the media fraternity, senior officials, and friends joined the family to pay their final respects, recalling his simplicity, honesty, and dedication to the profession.
Photojournalist Javid Dar remembered him as “a man of rare honesty and depth,” saying, “Tariq never compromised on facts. Even in the most polarized times, he remained fair, fearless, and deeply committed to ethical journalism. He was an honest man — truth was his identity.”
Another Senior journalist who works with national daily described Bhat as “a gentle mentor who guided many of us through the toughest stories.” He added, “His contribution to journalism in Kashmir is immense. Tariq sahib’s passing is not just a personal loss, but a professional one for all of us.”
Editor-in-Chief of Kashmir Dot Com, Haroon Nabi, described Bhat as “a gentle soul and a source of quiet strength for many young journalists.” He said, “Tariq sahib’s humility, clarity of thought, and unwavering professionalism earned him deep respect across the media fraternity. His passing leaves a profound void in Kashmir’s journalistic circles — one that will not be easily filled.”
Bhat was later laid to rest at his ancestral graveyard in Sonwar.
National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Vice President Omar Abdullah also expressed grief over Bhat’s passing, describing him as “a respected voice in journalism, known for his integrity, dedication, and insightful reporting.” In a joint message, they said his contribution to the field and his unwavering commitment to truth will always be remembered. “May his soul rest in peace,” they added.
Former Minister and senior Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Naeem Akhtar expressed deep grief over the death of veteran journalist Tariq Ahmad Bhat, calling it “an irreparable loss to Kashmir’s journalistic fraternity.” In his condolence message, Akhtar praised Bhat’s professionalism and integrity, saying he faced the challenges of his career with “invincible courage and moral uprightness.”
Akhtar said Bhat’s greatest contribution was his lifelong commitment to ethical journalism. “He never sought attention or fanfare. Individuals like him give soul to society and become torchbearers for the budding journalists of our land,” Akhtar said, praying for eternal peace to the departed soul. “May Allah accord Tariq the highest place in Jannah and grant patience to his bereaved family. We all are grief-stricken,” he added. (KDC)
