In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
  • Khera Says fringe elements have no place in a civilised society, assures he will take up matter with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister 

SRINAGAR: Following the recent incidents of harassment and targeted assaults against Kashmiri shawl sellers across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana, a delegation of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA), led by its National Convenor Nasir Khuehami, on Sunday met AICC Chairman, Media & Publicity, Pawan Khera, and formally apprised him of the grave situation. Khuehami was accompanied by JKSA National Spokesperson Dr. Zubair Reshi and Delhi State General Secretary Peerzada Kafeel during the meeting.

During the interaction, Khuehami flagged the recurring incidents of intimidation, coercion, and violence against Kashmiri traders, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, where despite repeated assurances and earlier interventions, such incidents continue to be reported from multiple districts. He also highlighted specific cases from Almora in Uttarakhand and Yamunanagar in Haryana, underscoring the lack of timely and effective police action, delayed or absent FIRs, and the growing sense of fear and insecurity among Kashmiri shawl sellers.

Expressing serious concern, Pawan Khera said that such incidents are deeply disturbing and have no place in a civilised and democratic society. He asserted that fringe elements driven by hate and intolerance must not be allowed to dictate the social fabric of the country or undermine constitutional values. Khera assured the Khuehami led delegation that he would personally take up the matter with the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu and raise these concerns at the appropriate levels to ensure accountability and corrective action.

Khuehami said that the continued targeting of Kashmiri traders, coupled with administrative apathy, not only threatens livelihoods but also risks deepening alienation and mistrust, which is detrimental to national unity and long-term social cohesion. ā€œKashmiris are equal citizens of this country. Forcing them out of cities through fear, intimidation, or violence is a direct assault on the Constitution, the rule of law, and the idea of India,ā€ he said.

The association reiterated that violence, communal intimidation, and hate-driven vigilantism must be dealt with firmly and decisively, without fear or favour. It stressed the need for clear, time-bound directions to state authorities, strict action against perpetrators, fixing of accountability where lapses have occurred, and the establishment of credible security and monitoring mechanisms to ensure the safety, dignity, and lawful livelihoods of Kashmiri shawl sellers across northern states.

Association said it will continue to engage with political leadership, authorities, and institutions to ensure that justice is delivered and that the rule of law prevails, reaffirming that India’s strength lies in unity, constitutional morality, and respect for diversity.

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). ā€œHis article, ā€˜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.ā€.  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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