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

ALIGARH: Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) students organised a solemn candle march on Thursday evening to mourn the tragic loss of 17 lives, including 14 children, in Budhal, Rajouri, over the past two months. The protest, led by Zubair Reshi, Spokesperson and Media Incharge of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) and a PhD scholar at AMU, aimed to draw attention to the authorities' apathy towards the suffering of the affected families.

The march witnessed significant participation from Jammu and Kashmir students, activists, and scholars, who stood united in their demand for justice.During the demonstration, Reshi submitted a memorandum to the AMU Proctor, addressing it to the President of India. The memorandum urged immediate compensation for the victims' families, a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident, and accountability of the administration for its failure to prevent such tragedies.Addressing the media, Reshi strongly criticized the Jammu and Kashmir government for its inadequate response to the Budhal, Rajouri tragedy.

He condemned the lack of urgency and commitment to justice, stating that the victims' families continue to wait for relief and answers.He also criticized Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his delayed visit, calling it a mere photo opportunity that provided no substantial assistance to the grieving families. ā€œThe people of Budhal, Rajouri deserve more than just condolences; they need justice, support, and accountability,ā€ he said.

Protesting students from Jammu and Kashmir at Aligarh Muslim University emphasized that the affected families deserve transparency, relief, and adequate compensation for the tragic losses they have suffered. They urged the government to take immediate steps to prevent such incidents in the future.In its statement, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association said that the tragedy in Rajouri is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by remote and underserved regions, particularly in terms of healthcare security.

The lack of adequate healthcare infrastructure in such areas makes them highly susceptible to crises of this nature. Immediate and transparent action is crucial to prevent further loss of life and restore confidence among the affected communities.The Association further demanded a time-bound report on the incident, stressing the necessity of ensuring accountability and justice. This health emergency requires immediate attention to prevent further loss of life, it added.

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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