Dr Shujaat Bukhari (25 February 1968 – 14 June 2018) was one of the most respected journalists in Jammu and Kashmir. He was widely known for his brave reporting, balanced views, and strong support for peace during years of conflict in the region. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He is often remembered with the title “Dr.” in tributes. He founded and edited Rising Kashmir, a leading English-language newspaper based in Srinagar. His killing in 2018 shocked the media world and showed the risks journalists face in conflict areas.
Early Life and Education
Shujaat Bukhari was born in Kreeri village in Baramulla district, about 25 miles from Srinagar. From a young age, he loved news and storytelling. As a school student, he even started a small local news agency in his village.
He first worked in accounting but soon realised his passion was journalism. He left his job to become a full-time journalist, which made him truly happy.
He worked with local newspapers like Kashmir Times and Daily Bombay. Later, he studied journalism abroad and earned a Master’s degree from Ateneo de Manila University in the Philippines. He also received training in the United States through the World Press Institute.
These global experiences helped him develop a balanced and thoughtful style of reporting.
Journalism Career
Shujaat Bukhari worked in journalism for more than 20 years. From 1997 to 2012, he was the Srinagar correspondent and bureau chief for The Hindu, one of India’s top newspapers.
He reported on Kashmir with care, balance, and honesty. Many people saw him as a reliable voice on the region.
In 2008, he started Rising Kashmir, an independent newspaper that focused on moderate and peaceful views. He also launched Buland Kashmir (Urdu daily) and Kashmir Parcham (Urdu weekly).
Under his leadership, Rising Kashmir became very popular and trained many young journalists.
Bukhari supported dialogue instead of violence. He wrote for international platforms like the BBC and encouraged peace efforts, including ceasefires during Ramadan.
Assassination and Legacy
On 14 June 2018, 29 Ramadan, Shujaat Bukhari was shot dead in Srinagar’s Press Enclave. He was leaving his office for an iftar gathering when gunmen attacked his vehicle.
He was killed along with two police guards. He was 50 years old.
The attack shocked everyone, as it happened in a high-security area. It was believed that militants were behind the killing, possibly to silence his voice for peace.
Many global organisations, including the Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders, strongly condemned the attack.
Remembering Shujaat Bukhari
Every year on 14 June, people remember him with prayers and tributes, especially in his hometown Kreeri.
He is still seen as a symbol of truth, courage, and peace in journalism. His newspaper Rising Kashmir continues his mission, and many journalists he trained carry forward his legacy.
His life reminds us of the price journalists sometimes pay for speaking the truth.
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