SRINAGAR: Former MLC, BJP Spokesperson, and Trustee of Mata Bhadrakali Asthapan Trust, Shri Girdhari Lal Raina, has expressed deep concern over the reported withdrawal of security from the revered and highly sensitive shrine of Mata Bhadrakali Asthapan, located in the dense forests of Bhadrakali, Wadipora, Handwara in Kupwara district.

In communications addressed to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, and the Director General of Police, Nalin Prabhat, Shri Raina urged the administration to immediately review the situation and ensure adequate security arrangements for the shrine and its devotees.

He stated that Mata Bhadrakali Asthapan is an ancient and highly revered shrine that attracts a large number of devotees from different parts of Jammu & Kashmir and beyond. The shrine was until recently protected by the Army, but the security cover has reportedly been withdrawn without any visible alternative mechanism being put in place.

Shri Raina recalled that the sacred Murti of Mata Bhadrakali had been stolen in the past, resulting in widespread public anger and protests. He emphasized that the present Murti was installed and consecrated through proper religious rituals and Pran Pratishtha, and any harm to the deity or the shrine due to inadequate security would deeply hurt the religious sentiments of countless devotees.

He cautioned that any security lapse at such a sensitive religious site could have wider implications and may undermine public confidence in the administration's ability to protect places of worship and uphold the rule of law.

Demanding immediate intervention, Shri Raina urged the authorities to put in place adequate security arrangements before any withdrawal of protection is effected and to take all necessary steps to preserve the sanctity, dignity, and security of the shrine.

"The safety of devotees and the protection of this sacred place of worship must remain a matter of priority. The administration must act promptly to ensure that the shrine remains secure and that devotees can visit it without fear or apprehension," Shri Raina said.

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

       LOOK_HERE.jpg Esteemed readers, for your convenience, we have categorized our news publishing into following 👇