Sarjan Barkati to Run for Assembly from Jail, Daughter to Lead Campaign

Srinagar, August 27: Following the path of jailed politician Er Rashid, Sarjan Barkati, famously known as “Azadi Chacha,” will contest the upcoming assembly elections from behind bars. Barkati’s daughter has taken the initiative to file his nomination form and is expected to lead the campaign in support of her father.

Barkati rose to prominence for organizing large gatherings and leading rallies during the 2016 unrest in Kashmir, where his slogans and speeches resonated with many. His influence and activism earned him both supporters and detractors.

On August 28 last year, Barkati was arrested for allegedly orchestrating a fund-raising campaign, which authorities claimed was used to finance radical activities in Kashmir. Despite his incarceration, Barkati’s decision to contest the elections symbolizes a continued presence in the political arena, with his daughter carrying forward his message on the ground.