JAMMU: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu & Kashmir Assembly, Sunil Sharma, launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and NC government, accusing them of “brazenly betraying the public mandate” by facilitating policies aimed at protecting elite and vested interests.

Sharma alleged that the government’s move to allow a private member’s bill seeking amendments to the Land Grants Act exposes its true intent, favouring a privileged few at the cost of the common people. He said the speed with which the Chief Minister permitted the bill raises serious questions about the motives behind the decision.

“For all those who voted for the National Conference believing it would fight for their rights, it is with deep regret that I say this, your mandate now appears to be used not for public good, but to safeguard elite interests,” Sharma said. “Be it Nedous, the Chief Minister’s personal property, or a circle of influential, blue-eyed, cocktail-circuit associates, this government is working overtime to protect its own.”

Sunil Sharma asserted that the proposed amendments are a calculated attempt to re-open the doors for re-leasing vast tracts of prime government land at throwaway prices. “This is not an isolated decision, it reflects a pattern that has persisted for decades, where public resources are quietly handed over to the powerful and well-connected,” he added.

Sharma further accused Omar Abdullah of prioritizing personal and political interests over public welfare. “The Chief Minister seems more concerned about safeguarding his own properties and those of his blue-eyed favorites than protecting the rights of ordinary citizens. This is governance for the elite, by the elite,” he said.

Sunil Sharma questioned the moral basis of the government’s actions, and asked “What message does this send to the common citizen of Jammu & Kashmir? That their vote can be misused to empower a privileged few? Instead of safeguarding public assets and ensuring justice for the marginalized, this government is enabling and patronizing those who have long benefited at the cost of the poor.”

Sharma called the move “deeply unfortunate and alarming,” and said that such actions erode public trust and weaken democratic accountability. He termed this as disappointing and a clear betrayal of trust. The people of Jammu & Kashmir deserve transparency, fairness, and governance that serves all, not just a select few,” he concluded.

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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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