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

JAMMU: Minister for Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo today informed the House that the government Medical College (GMC) and Associated Hospital Udhampur is functioning in conformity with the prescribed norms and standards and continues to provide efficient healthcare services to the public. The Minister said this in reply to the Calling Attention motion moved by Pawan Kumar Gupta in the Legislative Assembly today.

He added that all essential departments, including Out-Patient Department (OPD), In-Patient Department (IPD), Emergency Services, and diagnostic facilities, are fully functional and adequately catering to the healthcare requirements of the region.

Regarding the incident reported on the night of 23rd January, 2026 in the Casualty/Emergency Section of Associated Hospital, Udhampur, the Minister said that an Internal Inquiry Committee was constituted forthwith to ascertain the factual position and the circumstances surrounding the occurrence of this unfortunate incident. She added that the Committee has observed that the patient had either expired prior to arrival or succumbed immediately upon being brought to the hospital and the formal declaration of death was made subsequently in view of the presence of attendants/relatives.

The Minister also said that the findings of the Inquiry Committee established that the doctors and medical staff on duty responded promptly and discharged their professional responsibilities in accordance with the established medical protocols under the circumstances.

She further said that in view of the incident and the circulation of related videos on social media platforms, the government appointed Professor Ashutosh Gupta, Principal, Government Medical College, Jammu, as the Inquiry Officer to conduct a comprehensive probe into the sequence of events, including administrative, security and institutional aspects.

The Minister reiterated the commitment of government to ensure efficient and accountable functioning of Government Medical Colleges and Associated Hospitals across the Union Territory, while upholding the highest standards of patient care, institutional discipline and professional conduct. She added that necessary directions have been issued to the concerned authorities to ensure orderly functioning of emergency services and effective coordination in handling such situations.

 The Minister also acknowledged the important role of public representatives in raising the matters of public concern. She expressed optimism that all the stakeholders will act in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect to ensure the smooth functioning of healthcare institutions in the larger public interest.

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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