BARAMULLA: In a landmark decision, the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC) Baramulla/ Bandipora has ruled in favour of a local shopkeeper, Syed Ibrahim Rizvi, in a case related to the non-settlement of an insurance claim following the devastating floods of September 2014.

The complainant, a resident of Malmoh Pattan, had insured the stock of his shop through a policy issued by Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company, facilitated by J&K Grameen Bank Khore Sherabad. After the floods submerged his shop for over 15 days, causing complete damage to the insured stock, the complainant approached the bank and submitted a written request to process his claim.

However, despite the bank forwarding the claim to the insurance company, no further action was taken by the insurer, leading the complainant to file a case before the Consumer Commission. After a thorough examination of evidence, witness testimonies, and legal submissions, the Commission held that there was a clear deficiency in service and unfair trade practice on the part of the insurance company and the bank. The Commission emphasized that once the bank forwards the claim, it constitutes valid and effective intimation to the insurer, regardless of whether the insurer acknowledges receipt.

In its final order, the Commission directed Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company and J&K Grameen Bank to register the claim and pay an amount of Rs.3,00,000 along with 7% interest from the date of the order till its realization. Additionally, they have been directed to pay Rs.1,00,000 for causing mental agony and indulging in unfair trade practice, and Rs.20,000 towards litigation expenses.

The order, issued on July 15, 2025, was pronounced by Commission President Peerzada Qousar Hussain and Member Nyla Yaseen. The parties have been given a deadline of four weeks to comply with the directions.

In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here