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

JAMMU: Rattan Lal Gupta, Provincial President of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), today voiced strong objections against the nomination of five MLAs to the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly by LG, asserting that this move is unconstitutional and undemocratic. He stated that such powers lie solely with an elected government and cannot be exercised by the Lieutenant Governor (LG) in the absence of an elected body.

In a statement issued here today, the senior NC leader said that as per the constitution it is the prerogative of the elected government to nominate MLAs, not the LG. Reiterating his stance, Rattan Lal Gupta explained that all legislative powers, including the authority to nominate MLAs, shift to the government after elections. "In a democratic setup, the elected government must have the authority to make these nominations. The LG, though part of the administration, does not have the constitutional right to take such decisions in the presence of an elected government," he said.

Accusing the BJP of resorting to unethical practices, the senior NC leader said, "Having lost the Assembly polls, the BJP has now turned to desperate measures, including indulging in horse-trading by approaching independent candidates. This tactic reflects their unwillingness to respect the democratic will of the people and their attempts to manipulate the political landscape in their favor. Instead of accepting the mandate of the electorate, the BJP is actively working behind the scenes to sway independent representatives and subvert the electoral process, he said, adding that such actions undermine the very foundation of democracy and erode public trust in fair governance. 

He asserted that the people of Jammu and Kashmir deserve a government that is chosen by their votes, not one cobbled together through questionable deals and backdoor alliances. The Provincial President emphasized that the National Conference remains committed to upholding the constitutional and democratic processes and warned against any actions that undermine these principles in Jammu and Kashmir.

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

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