Veteran journalist Shyam Koul dead

The 79-year-old journalist is survived by his wife, daughter and two sons.

Known for his professional abilities, Koul reported Kashmir for a long time.

Hailing from Safapora-Mansabal area in district Ganderbal, he joined Press Asia International and later 'Kashmir Post', edited by vertan journalist and former DG, Information, J N Zutshi, as a reporter in Kashmir.

After serving the newspaper for a brief period, he joined Radio Kashmir as Regional Correspondent.

He had also served 'Kashmir Times' for a short time and was the state bureau chief of the now-defunct daily 'National Herald' and 'Quami Awaz' for over two decades.

Koul had been writing in different newspapers and journals on the developments in Kashmir in recent years, especially about the problems of displaced minority Hindu community of the Valley. He had also come out with some books on the turmoil and his experience.

Journalists, political parties and social organisations in J&K condoled the death of Koul.

Pradesh Congress Committee, Awami National Conference (ANC) President and BJP condoled Koul's death.

Press Club in Jammu held a condolence meeting and Peoples Democratic Party recalled Koul's contributions to journalism.