Tihar authorities deny reports of Shabir Shah's deteriorating health

June 27, 2025 by News Desk

The Tihar Jail administration has issued a statement denying reports about the critical health condition of senior separatist leader Shabir Ahmad Shah, asserting that he is being provided regular medical attention and that his condition remains stable.

The clarification comes amid growing concern in Kashmir over Shah’s health, with several mainstream political leaders and civil society members calling for his release on humanitarian grounds.

Shah, who is lodged in Tihar Jail since 2017 under charges including money laundering, has reportedly been diagnosed with prostate cancer.

His family and supporters have alleged that he is not receiving adequate medical care and have appealed for urgent intervention.

In response to the concerns, the Director General (Prisons), Delhi, said Shah was referred to Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital on June 26, 2025, for an outpatient consultation after he complained of lower urinary tract symptoms.

He was subsequently admitted for further evaluation.

“All his reports have been found to be normal,” the statement said. “Appropriate medical treatment is being provided to him at Safdarjung Hospital.”

The jail authorities emphasized that Shah has been “regularly provided with all medical attention” and termed the social media reports as “rumours.”

Shah, a founding member of the Jammu Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party, has spent nearly four decades in prison, as per his family members.

His family had written letters seeking support for Kashmir assembly members and Members of parliament.

Among those who raised concern over the deteriorating health of Shabir Shah was Mehbooba Mufti, Aga Ruhullah, Sajad Lone and Mian Altaf among others.

The press release, regarding his health, was issued by Arvind Kumar, PRO, Delhi Prisons on Friday.