Prisoner No. 100 – An Account of My Days and Nights in an Indian Prison

On February 6, 2003, Anjum Zamrud Habib, a Kashmiri political activist, was arrested and sentenced to five years in Tihar jail, sharing her poignant experiences and the harsh realities of the Kashmir conflict.

Prisoner No. 100 – An Account of My Days and Nights in an Indian Prison recounts the harrowing experience of Anjum Zamrud Habib, a young political activist from Kashmir. Arrested on February 6, 2003, in Delhi, she was convicted under the Prevention of Terrorism Act and sentenced to five years in Tihar jail. Her alleged crime stemmed from her political affiliations and the unfortunate circumstance of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. As the Chairperson of the Muslim Khawateen Markaz and a member of the Hurriyat Conference, Habib's activism placed her at odds with the state, leading to her incarceration.

In this poignant narrative, Habib shares her initial shock and confusion at the arrest, revealing the emotional turmoil of being removed from her life and the reality of facing years behind bars. The book delves into her longing for connection with the outside world and the profound sense of abandonment felt when her political allies distanced themselves during her time in prison. Through her eyes, readers gain insight into the psychological and emotional challenges that accompany imprisonment, particularly for those involved in political dissent.

Prisoner No. 100 not only highlights the personal struggles of one woman but also serves as a broader commentary on the impact of the Kashmir conflict and the oppressive state policies that affect countless lives. Habib’s story is one of resilience and courage, providing a vital perspective on the human cost of political strife and the enduring spirit of those who resist it.