Doda, Oct 14: Raja Shakeel, a well-known journalist and Marketing Editor at The Chenab Times, a Doda-based news outlet, on Tuesday announced his resignation from journalism, stating that he intends to dedicate his life to social activism and the welfare of the people of Chenab Valley.
In a statement shared on social media, Shakeel said his decision was not born out of defeat but from determination. “For years, I reported the truth, and it has been an incredible journey that began at The Chenab Times, where I learned the craft of storytelling and the responsibility of amplifying unheard voices,” he said.
He added that while journalism helped him highlight the sufferings and struggles of people, he now feels “a deeper calling — not just to report their pain, but to address it.”
Shakeel officially announced his resignation as Marketing Editor of The Chenab Times, terming his departure “not a resignation, but a revolution.” He vowed to continue his mission for truth and justice through activism.
“My voice will not fade; it will echo louder, stronger, and bolder than ever before. I dedicate my life to my people — to serve them with unwavering commitment to truth and justice,” Shakeel said in his statement.
He also clarified that he is not joining any political party but expressed support for detained Aam Aadmi Party MLA Mehraj Malik. “I proudly support Mehraj Malik, a true voice and a man of his word, who never bows down in the face of adversity,” he said.
From Journalism to Activism
Hailing from Joura Kalan village of Kahara tehsil in Doda district, Shakeel has been associated with The Chenab Times for several years, where he worked in multiple capacities including reporter, anchor, and marketing head.
He holds a degree in Civil Engineering from Kurukshetra University and is also known for his poetry and hosting skills in regional cultural programmes.
His work at The Chenab Times often focused on highlighting civic issues, rural hardships, and developmental concerns across the Chenab Valley. He is known for covering stories that brought attention to neglected regions of Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban districts.
Background: Support for Mehraj Malik
Shakeel’s announcement comes amid growing public attention on the detention of AAP MLA Mehraj Malik under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Malik, the lone AAP legislator in Jammu and Kashmir, was detained in September, with authorities citing multiple FIRs and allegations of disturbing public order.
The move has drawn criticism from several quarters. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently said that slapping PSA on an elected representative “weakens people’s faith in democracy.”
In Doda and adjoining areas, Malik’s arrest has triggered public demonstrations and candlelight protests. On Sunday evening, thousands across Jammu and Kashmir participated in the “Ek Candle Malik Ke Naam” campaign to express solidarity with the detained MLA ahead of his hearing in the High Court scheduled for October 14.
“Not From the Newsroom, But From the Heart”
Shakeel’s resignation has stirred conversations within the local media fraternity, with many colleagues describing his decision as a natural extension of his commitment to social causes.
A senior journalist from Bhaderwah, who wished not to be named, said, “Raja has always been close to grassroots reporting. His move to activism doesn’t surprise us — he was always more than just a reporter.”
Observers say Shakeel’s decision underscores a growing trend among young journalists in conflict-affected areas who feel constrained by newsroom limitations and choose to engage more directly with the community.
While Shakeel’s future plans are not yet publicly detailed, he said his work will continue “for truth, for justice, and for the people.”
