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KATHUA: The Divisional Forest Officer Kathua today clarified that the Department has initiated appropriate legal action against the persons involved in a Forest offence, The Department has refuted a news report published in a section of press. 

“Proceedings have been initiated against the owner of the vehicle used in the commission of the forest offence as well as against the owner of M/s Sharma Katha Industry, Banyari Mahreen under Section 52 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927. The proceedings are presently pending before the competent authority,” the Department informed.

The Department further stated that the vehicle and illicit timber were duly seized and the offence was registered in accordance with the prescribed procedure. All statutory and legal actions against the persons involved have been initiated without any favour or discrimination.

Accordingly, the allegation that the factory has been shielded from legal action is wholly baseless, unfounded and contrary to the official records, the Department asserted. “Since the matter is presently under statutory proceedings before the competent authority, it will not be appropriate to comment further on the merits of the case,” the Officer stated. 

The Department further observed that publication of the news report without ascertaining the factual position from the Department has the potential to mislead the public and prejudice the ongoing legal proceedings.

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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