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

SRINAGAR: The office of Union External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has responded to a request from the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA), which sought urgent intervention for the repatriation of a Kashmiri engineer languishing in a Saudi Arabian jail.In a statement, JKSA National Convenor Nasir Khuehami said, "We have been informed by the External Affairs Minister's office that our Embassy in Riyadh has conveyed details regarding Shri Abdul Rafi Baba, a resident of Srinagar district in Jammu & Kashmir.

He has been imprisoned in Dammam Intelligence Jail since March 1, 2022, on charges related to cybercrimes concerning terror activities and for allegedly circulating objectionable videos on social media."Khuehami further said that Under Secretary Bibhuti Nath Pandey from the External Affairs Minister’s office briefed them about the legal proceedings in the case. Initially, Baba was sentenced to 11 years in prison. However, following an appeal filed by both Baba and the Public Prosecution, the appeal court revised the sentence to 31 years under the relevant laws.

His case is currently pending before the Saudi Supreme Court.The Under Secretary also confirmed that consular access has been granted multiple times, with visits conducted on May 3, 2021, September 6, 2022, February 20, 2023, September 5, 2023, and most recently on September 11, 2024.During these visits, Baba informed officials that he remains in contact with his family in India, speaking with them once a week.

He appears to be in good health and has not reported any issues related to food, shelter, or basic needs, the Under Secretary added.The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has reiterated its demand and urged the Ministry of External Affairs to explore all possible diplomatic avenues to ensure a fair trial and facilitate Baba’s repatriation. The Association has requested the Union External Affairs Minister to take up the issue with the Saudi authorities.

Expressing hope for swift action, the Association stated that the MEA must act promptly to bring Baba back home. Khuehami added that Baba’s father has only one wish—to see his son free before his time runs out. The family’s prolonged suffering has now reached a breaking point.

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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