JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today expressed deep concern on behalf of the House over the recent civilian killings in the Billawar area of Kathua. While condemning the tragic loss of innocent lives, the Chief Minister stated, “As the leader of the House, I want to formally express our collective concern over the killings in Billawar and extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. We mourn the loss of all three innocent civilians who were killed in this incident, as well as the two others who lost their lives in a similar incident before this.”

 Calling for a thorough investigation, he emphasized the need to ascertain “how and why the incident occurred and who was responsible for it.” He also stressed the importance of taking appropriate action regarding the attack on MLA Bani.

 Questioning the circumstances surrounding the visit of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) while his Deputy Chief Minister was not allowed to visit the affected area, Omar Abdullah remarked, “If I am correct, the Leader of Opposition visited the area. It appears that a political narrative is being attached to the situation. Yesterday, I spoke to the Deputy Chief Minister, who was advised against visiting the area due to the prevailing situation. I told him that as responsible individuals, we must ensure that our presence does not escalate tensions. If the situation is volatile, it is prudent for both of us to refrain from visiting.”

The Chief Minister further stated that a senior police officer of Kathua district had informed Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary that the situation remained tense and that he could visit the area in 2-3 days once normalcy was restored.  “What is beyond my understanding is that if the situation was indeed so volatile that the Deputy Chief Minister was advised against visiting, how was the LoP allowed to do so? We demand answers from those who allowed the LoP’s visit while preventing the Deputy CM from going there,” he asserted.

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
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

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