Senior photojournalist Nissar Ahmad, who was associated with The Hindu for 25 years, died of cancer in Srinagar on Wednesday.

Ahmad, 59, was admitted to the Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital (SMHS) hospital a few days ago but his health condition started deteriorating on June 18. He was surrounded by immediate family members when he breathed his last at the hospital on Wednesday noon.

Ahmad is survived by his spouse, two sons and a daughter. He had joined The Hindu on August 1, 1998.

The final rites of Ahmad took place at his residence in Srinagar’s Natipora area. He was buried at his ancestral graveyard in Natipora. Hundreds of local residents joined the funeral prayers. His death was widely grieved by the journalistic fraternity of Kashmir.

Senior politicians of Jammu and Kashmir expressed their grief over Ahmad’s untimely demise. Former J&K Chief Minister and National Conference vice-president Omar Abdullah posted his condolence message in microblogging site X. “Nissar was a regular presence at events and press conferences over the years. His absence will be greatly felt. May Allah grant him a place in Jannat. My condolences to his family and colleagues,” Abdullah.

Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti also expressed her condolences. “Very sorry to hear about the passing away of veteran photojournalist Nissar Ahmed. May Allah give his family and loved ones strength to bear this loss,” Mufti said.

CPI (M) leader MY Tarigami also extended his condolences to the bereaved family.