The Jammu and Kashmir school education authorities have issued directions for a comprehensive screening of all books in schools and coaching institutions to ensure that no book contains inappropriate or objectionable content. The order, dated July 6, follows the suspension of eight officials and supervisory staff of the School Education Department by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha after two books containing 'separatist content' were found to have been supplied to government schools.
Scope of the Screening Exercise
An order issued by the Directorate of School Education, Kashmir, stated that all heads of government schools, recognised private schools, and coaching institutions must conduct a thorough screening of all books, whether recently acquired or older publications, in their respective jurisdictions. This includes books in offices, classrooms, staffrooms, and school libraries. Officials said the purpose is to ensure that no book contains material that may violate religious sentiments of any section, content inappropriate for students, or material against prevailing laws that could harm national interest. All material must align with the age-appropriate guidelines of the National Education Policy, 2020.
Reporting and Compliance Requirements
If objectionable content is identified, the head of the institution must prepare a detailed report containing the title of the book, year of publication, author and publisher names, and the number of books. The order mandates that heads of all government and recognised private institutions, including coaching centres, complete the exercise with due diligence, maintain proper records, and ensure strict compliance within the stipulated time frame. A compliance report must be submitted to the chief education officer or zonal education officer concerned. In cases where objectionable content is found, a report must be submitted within seven days from the date of the circular.
Consolidation and Deadline
The zonal education officer concerned shall scrutinise and consolidate all reports from schools and coaching centres under their jurisdiction and submit a consolidated report to the office of the chief education officer concerned by July 15. The chief education officers of Kashmir Division must then submit any reports to the office of the Directorate of School Education, Kashmir, by July 17. The order warns that any lapse in compliance will be viewed seriously and will invite appropriate disciplinary action against defaulting officers under applicable rules.
Background and Context
This action follows the suspension of eight education department officials after two textbooks containing separatist content were discovered in government schools. The move underscores the administration's commitment to upholding national interest and educational standards as per the National Education Policy 2020. The screening aims to prevent any material that could potentially harm national unity or violate existing laws.
