In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
  • Book a moving tribute of Sakeena Itoo to her father Shaheed Wali Muhammad Itoo
  • Lauds Government for exceptional performance of Govt. Schools in 10th, 12th class results

JAMMU: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Advocate Abdul Rahim Rather today addressed the Book Review event of ‘Durr-e-Naayaab’, a biography of Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo at Department of Urdu, University of Jammu. The book, authored by Minister Sakeena Itoo, daughter of late leader, chronicles the life and contributions of Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo, former Minister and Speaker of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, who was assassinated on March 18, 1994, in Jammu.

Speaking on the occasion, the Speaker paid glowing tributes to late leader, describing him as “an able administrator and people friendly leader, who sacrificed his life for the well being of people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the downtrodden communities.”

The Speaker recalled that Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo was a man of principles who remained committed to his principles and his party despite the turbulent times of militancy in early nineties. “He never wanted to leave Kashmir in those difficult times and always desired to be among his people for their upliftment”, the Speaker said.

Remembering his close association with the late leader, the Speaker said, “In the year 1977 both of us were elected as first time MLAs and this association changed into a close relation till he left us”. He added that his tenure as MLA, MLC, Minister or Speaker has been very noteworthy which left an indelible mark on those associated with him.

Paying glowing tributes, the Speaker remarked Shaheed Wali Mohammad Itoo as a great leader whose selfless work cannot be defined in words. The Speaker also said that great leader has done a great favour to the society by giving us a brave daughter Sakeena Itoo who is living the mission of her great father.

While lauding the Minister Sakeena Itoo’s literary accomplishment, the Speaker said that despite being the most active Minister, she spared some time to write this extraordinary book, adding that this book will be a guide for younger generation to do something for society, as it reflects deeply on life and mission of a leader who dedicated himself to his people and his land.

On the occasion, the Speaker also lauded the Government and especially the Education Minister Sakeena Itoo for exceptional performance of Government Schools in 10th and 12th results declared yesterday. He underlined that the performance of students of Government Schools reflects the commitment towards the improvement of Education sector from last more than a year, adding that the teachers and the government deserve due credit for this.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister Sakeena spoke about the valuable and golden moments she shared with her father which became cornerstone for her to write this unique book. She also expressed her gratitude to former Chief Minister, Dr. Farooq Abdullah; Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather and others for guiding her while penning this book.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor, Jammu University, Prof. Umesh Rai said that this book is an important asset for the younger people to acquaint themselves about the life long teachings and learnings of a great leader, who dedicated his life for the betterment of society. He also appreciated the author and Minister Sakeena Itoo for writing this book despite such a busy schedule. He also announced that the University will provide every possible support for translating the book into English, Hindi or other local languages.

Speaking on the occasion, noted poet, writer and Sahitya Academy Awardee, Prof. Mohammad Zaman Azarduh said that this book is great tribute of a daughter to her father, highlighting the great contribution of a great leader who dedicated his life and everything for the welfare of people. He also lauded the author and Minister, Sakeena Itoo for keeping the the mission of her father alive by dedicated herself to the society as a public representative and Minister.

In his welcome address, Professor & Head department of Urdu, Prof. Shohab Inayat Malik remembered his close association with the late leader. He added that the late leader had a very soft corner towards his people and he always remained at forefront in helping others. On the occasion, Assistant Professor, Dr. Sehnaz Qadri also read a review of the book ‘Durr-e-Naayaab’ which captivated the audience to read this book.

Pertinently, the book was released by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah in the month of October 2025 at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC) Srinagar. Dean Research Studies, Jammu University, Prof. Neelu Rohmetra; noted poet and Sahitya Academy Awardee Manshoor Banihali; Author and Tribal Social Reformer, Javaid Rahi; Professors, faculty members and large number of students were also present on the occasion.

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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