JAMMU: RTI Activist Raman Sharma has urged the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to intervene in the ongoing health crisis in Badhaal village, Rajouri district, where 17 people, including children, have tragically lost their lives since December 2024. The deaths are believed to be linked to water contamination caused by harmful pesticides or insecticides, leaving the affected families in deep distress.

Sharma has filed formal petition  to the NHRC on 23/Jan/2025 which has been allotted diary number 1614/IN/2025 , in the petition, besides other demands, he has requested the commission to issue directions to the Union Health Ministry to assist the Jammu and Kashmir government in addressing the health crisis.

The petition  also demands immediate financial compensation for the grieving families, who are struggling emotionally and financially after these devastating losses. Sharma has stressed the need for medical and psychological support for the survivors, especially vulnerable children and the elderly.

 The plea highlights the urgency of NHRC’s involvement to expedite the investigation into the cause of these deaths, ensuring transparency and accountability. Sharma has also urged the NHRC to recommend preventive measures to avoid such tragedies in the future, including regular testing of water sources, awareness campaigns on chemical safety, and improved healthcare infrastructure in rural areas.

He has further requested that the NHRC depute a team to Rajouri to interact directly with the affected families and gather firsthand information. This will ensure that the Commission takes informed and decisive action to address the urgent needs of the community. Sharma’s petition underscores the need for prompt intervention to safeguard the rights and well-being of vulnerable citizens in Jammu & Kashmir.

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