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

SRINAGAR: Former Planning Minister and MLA Bandipora, Usman Majid, on Tuesday, vehemently condemned the alleged assault on Kashmiri Pandits by Indian National Congress (INC) workers in Bandipora, describing the incident as an attack on democracy and communal harmony. Majid expressed deep concern over the physical assault on Kashmiri Pandits and said that they were abused, threatened, and intimidated by Congress workers in an attempt to coerce them into voting for Congress.

He said that Ghulam Nabi Tantray, a close aide of Congress candidate Nizamuddin Bhat, was involved and accused him of being behind these nefarious designs.He asserted, "The Kashmiri Pandits were targeted, thrashed, abused, and roughed up for refusing to cast their votes under pressure. Such tactics are not only illegal but shameful and contrary to the very principles of democracy.

"Majid further emphasized that the Kashmiri Pandit community is an integral part of the valley, and their contribution to the social and cultural fabric of Jammu and Kashmir is invaluable. "The Kashmiri Pandits have suffered enough over the years, and now, instead of protecting them, they are being threatened and abused. This must stop immediately. The well-being and safety of every Kashmiri, irrespective of their religion or background, must be ensured,"

Majid asserted.He urged the Election Commission of India (ECI) and the district administration of Bandipora to take immediate and necessary action against the culprits involved in this despicable act. "I call upon the ECI and the district administration to ensure that those responsible for this violence and intimidation, including Ghulam Nabi Tantray, are brought to justice and that the voting process remains free, fair, and secure for all," he said.

Majid also criticized the Indian National Congress, urging the Congress President and the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) to take swift and strict action against their party workers involved in the assault. "The Congress party has long claimed to stand for the safety and rehabilitation of the Kashmiri Pandit community, but these promises have proven to be hollow.

Instead of delivering on their commitments, they are now threatening and abusing the very people they once pledged to protect. Such hypocrisy will not be tolerated."He reiterated the need for accountability and respect for democratic processes, demanding that an FIR be lodged against all those involved, including Tantray. Majid called upon all political parties to maintain the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that no community is subjected to fear or coercion.

"Elections are a pillar of democracy, and any attempt to undermine the voice of the people through violence or intimidation must be met with strict consequences. The Kashmiri Pandits, like all citizens, deserve the right to participate freely in elections without fear or threat."

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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