SP South Jammu Dr. Ajay Sharma Conferred Ph.D. at SMVDU Convocation

Jammu: In a moment of pride for the Jammu and Kashmir Police, SP South Jammu Dr. Ajay Sharma, JKPS, was awarded the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree at the 11th Convocation of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) held today. The convocation ceremony was graced by the Chancellor of the University and the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, who presided as the Chief Guest.

The University had earlier formally notified the award of Dr. Sharma’s Ph.D. degree on October 20, 2025. His doctoral research, titled “On the Alleged Role of Religion in Fostering Fundamentalism,” is being widely acknowledged as a distinctive and timely scholarly contribution. The study offers a nuanced and in-depth analysis of the complex relationship between religion, ideology and social identity.

Dr. Sharma’s research critically examines how selective and distorted interpretations of religious beliefs can contribute to radicalisation, extremism and communal polarisation. At the same time, it highlights how informed, balanced and authentic understanding of religion and religious values can act as a powerful force for social cohesion, harmony and mutual respect. Drawing upon philosophical, psychological, sociological and historical perspectives, the study provides fresh insights into the roots of radical behaviour and addresses some of the most pressing challenges confronting contemporary society.

The achievement holds special significance not only for Dr. Ajay Sharma personally, but also for the Jammu and Kashmir Police as an institution committed to peace, tranquillity and harmony in a multicultural society. His research is expected to serve as a valuable resource for law enforcement agencies, academia, religious scholars and policymakers by strengthening the foundation for effective counter-radicalisation strategies, enhancing community policing initiatives and fostering trust across diverse communities. The work underlines the importance of knowledge-based and empathetic approaches in addressing security and social challenges.

Notably, Dr. Sharma obtained all requisite permissions from the Police Headquarters and the Home Department prior to undertaking his doctoral research. He has also published two research papers in reputed international journals, further reinforcing his academic credentials.

Members of the JKP fraternity, along with relatives, friends and netizens, have widely lauded and appreciated Dr. Ajay Sharma’s scholarly pursuit and his commitment to addressing issues of contemporary relevance with intellectual rigour and social responsibility.