The Survival Fight of JK Monitor: For 16 years, JK Monitor has chronicled Jammu and Kashmir with integrity. Since 2010, I have steered its newsroom alongside our visionary Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan (IIT Kharagpur alumnus, University of Maryland Ph.D.). His tragic demise in October 2026 left a severe financial and operational vacuum. Without urgent support, our 24/7 news portal risks permanently shutting down after November 2026, remaining only as a static digital archive. We appeal to well-wishers to extend a helping hand to keep our active newsroom alive. Support Us: WhatsApp: +91-9906103001 | Email: journalistajmerwani@gmail.com

JAMMU: BJP spokesperson Gaurav Gupta has demanded a public apology from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his misleading and irresponsible statement regarding the hike in Special Police Officers’ (SPO) honorarium. He stated that the entire episode, from the initial announcement to its abrupt deletion, has not only caused confusion but has also played with the emotions of thousands of SPOs and their families. He was addressing press conference along with Balbir Ram Rattan, BJP Spokesperson and Dr. Pardeep Mahotra, BJP Media Secretary at party headquarters, Trikuta Nagar, Jammu.

On 30th January, CM Omar Abdullah, through his official Instagram handle, posted an announcement expressing his delight over an increase in the honorarium for SPOs in J&K. Soon after, the official social media handle of the National Conference (NC) also tweeted, claiming it as “another promise fulfilled by the party.” This news sparked a wave of hope and joy among SPOs and their families. However, in a shocking turn of events, both posts were later deleted, and a fresh tweet was issued, acknowledging that the information was incorrect and had been posted without verification. The National Conference also announced the removal of the individual responsible for the misleading post from the position of Social Media Advisor to the Vice President, JKNC.

Gaurav Gupta strongly condemned this irresponsible handling of such an important issue, stating that it reflects a complete lack of seriousness on the part of CM Omar Abdullah towards the hardworking SPOs who play a crucial role in maintaining law and order in J&K. He further emphasized that the honorarium hike for SPOs falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), not the Chief Minister’s domain, raising serious concerns about his awareness of governance protocols. Simply sacking the social media advisor does not absolve him of responsibility. Since the misleading announcement was made through his official handle, BJP demands that CM Omar Abdullah personally issue a public apology to all SPOs and their families for this unfortunate episode.

The BJP stands in solidarity with all SPOs who were misled by this misinformation and assures them that the party remains committed to their welfare. Such deceptive practices must be condemned, and those in power must be held accountable for their words and actions.

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

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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