In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family

SRINAGAR: The Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Jammu and Kashmir, has registered a case following the outcome of a Joint Surprise Check conducted into allegations of corruption, financial irregularities, procedural violations, and abuse of official position in connection with development works executed by the Horticulture Department at Zawoora Garden, Srinagar. 

The Joint Surprise Check was initiated by Police Station ACB, Srinagar, to examine allegations relating to the development of the Centre of Excellence at Zawoora Garden, Srinagar. The enquiry revealed prima facie evidence of serious irregularities in the tendering and execution of works undertaken under the project. 

During the verification, it surfaced that NIT was allegedly framed in a manner that lacked specific quality parameters and technical specifications, thereby creating scope for arbitrary decision-making. It was further found that the financial provisions incorporated in the tender were substantially higher than those envisaged in the approved Detailed Project Report (DPR). The enquiry also revealed that the eligibility criteria relating to financial turnover were allegedly fixed at an unusually high threshold, despite the actual requirement being significantly lower. This restrictive condition is alleged to have curtailed fair competition and favoured a particular bidder. 

The findings of the Joint Surprise Check prima facie indicate abuse of official position, criminal misconduct, and criminal conspiracy involving public servants and the beneficiary private firm, resulting in undue pecuniary advantage to the contractor and corresponding loss to the Government. 

Accordingly, a case FIR No. 09/2026 has been registered at Police Station ACB, Srinagar, under Section 5(1)(d) read with Section 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act, Svt. 2006 and Section 120-B RPC against the then Director Horticulture Kashmir, members of the District Level Purchase Committee (DLPC), members of the Inspection Committee, the beneficiary contractor M/S Fruit Master Agro Fresh Pvt. Ltd., and other involved persons. 

Further investigation into the case has been taken up to identify the role and culpability of all concerned and to take appropriate legal action in accordance with law.

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
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

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