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: Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Jammu and Kashmir, Sanjeev Verma today chaired a review meeting to assess preparedness for the upcoming bye-election to 77-Nagrota Assembly Constituency (AC), scheduled to be held on November 11, 2025.

During the meeting, District Election Officer (DEO), Dr. Rakesh Minhas, presented a detailed account of the election arrangements being made in the constituency. He highlighted key parameters from the updated constituency profile and informed that 150 polling stations, with robust polling infrastructure and 100% assured minimum facilities like ramps, lighting, drinking water and sanitation, have been established for the bye poll to the Constituency, having 97,893 registered voters.

Detailed deliberations were held on EVM and VVPAT management, transport planning, SVEEP campaigns, strong room arrangements and facilities for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) and senior citizens during the meeting.

Addressing the officers, CEO Sanjeev Verma stressed that the bye-election must be conducted in a free, fair and transparent manner, ensuring voter confidence through strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct and timely redressal of grievances. He added that the bye-election represents a “festival of democracy”, which should witness inclusive participation from all sections of society.

The CEO directed officers to ensure completion of all training and logistical exercises as per schedule. He appreciated the proactive measures taken by the district administration and emphasized on citizen outreach through SVEEP rallies and awareness programmes.

The CEO expressed satisfaction over the coordinated arrangements led by the DEO and Returning Officer and urged all officers to work in close synergy, maintaining high standards of neutrality and efficiency to uphold the sanctity of the democratic process.

Dr. Nirupa Rai, Special Secretary; Sandish Kumar Gupta, Special Secretary, Joint CEO Anil Salgotra, other Nodal Officers and senior district officers were present in the meeting.

Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Returning Officer 77-Nagrota and Superintendent of Police (Headquarters) Irshad Rather also participated in the meeting and informed the CEO about the security preparedness for the Bye-Elections.

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