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

KISHTWAR: In a significant step towards preventing Bal Vivah, the Child Protection Department, Kishtwar, has urged religious leaders and students of Madrasas to strictly verify the age of both bride and groom before solemnising any Nikah or marriage ceremony.

The appeal was made under the guidance and directions of District Child Protection Officer Kishtwar Tariq Parveaz Qazi as part of the ongoing 100 days of Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat campaign aimed at eradicating child marriage from society. The campaign was carried out by the officials of DCPU, CHL and OSC Kishtwar.

Interacting with the religious leaders and students of Markaszi Madrasa Ahle Sunnat Madinatul Aloom Kishtwar, Touseef Iqbal Butt Protection Officer-NIC stressed that marriage below the prescribed legal age—18 years for girls and 21 years for boys—is a punishable offence. He requested religious leaders to act responsibly and refuse to conduct marriage rituals without proper age verification documents.

He emphasized the crucial role played by religious institutions and their leaders in protecting children's rights as it’s a part of society and people should realise it. The religious leaders assured their full cooperation in preventing early marriages of children and spreading this awareness within their communities ensuring that Child Helpline 1098 number will be displayed in the institution for reporting the incident of any Child Abuse.

In the end, Shashi Kumar (MPS OSC) administered the pledge on child marriage and stressed to work collectively for the protection of children’s rights. Those who were present including Vikey Sharma (Project Coordinator CHL), Aqib Qazi (ORW), Ruhi Kousar (MPS OSC).

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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