Jammu and Kashmir Orders Review of Educational Books Amid Concerns Over Academic Freedom and Security
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have issued a new directive to review libraries and educational materials in academic institutions to identify any objectionable content. The order instructs the removal of materials promoting terrorism, separatism, and extremism, a move that educators have criticized as an attack on academic freedom. The directive follows allegations by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) that two books glorify separatist elements, prompting strong opposition from other political parties.
July 17, Kathmandu – Jammu and Kashmir officials have instructed all educational institutions to review books containing ‘inappropriate and objectionable’ content. This directive has sparked debate over how the region’s history will be presented in classrooms and who will decide on such matters. According to the order issued last week, schools, colleges, universities, and coaching centers are required to inspect all published materials within their premises, including research papers and academic theses.
Officials have clarified that the directive is not intended to restrict academic freedom but aims only to remove materials that are ‘factually incorrect or illegal.’ Specifically, it targets content that promotes or legitimizes terrorism, violent extremism, separatism, fanaticism, or anti-national security activities. However, opposition parties, educators, and students have voiced concerns that the measure constitutes an assault on academic freedom and an attempt to erase Kashmir’s historical narrative.
The order was issued following allegations by the Bharatiya Janata Party concerning two books rooted in the narratives of prominent Jammu and Kashmir personalities, which sparked controversy and led to their removal. Subsequently, police arrested three individuals connected to the publication, and eight officials in the education department were suspended. In response to concerns raised by scholars, Nasir Ahmad Wani, Director of School Education, stated that a committee has been formed to review books present in schools and libraries. However, he did not specify which types of materials would be deemed ‘objectionable.’