Comprehensive Screening Ordered Across All Educational Institutions
The Directorate of School Education, Kashmir (DSEK) has issued a circular directing all heads of government schools, recognized private schools, and coaching institutions to conduct a thorough screening of all books and literature available on their premises. The move aims to identify and remove any publication containing inappropriate or objectionable content, including material that may violate religious sentiments, harm national interest, or contradict prevailing laws.
The order comes after reports that certain books and literature containing anti-national and separatist content were circulated in educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. The DSEK circular emphasizes that all materials must align with the age-appropriate guidelines of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Scope of Screening and Reporting Requirements
The screening covers all books, whether recently acquired or older publications, located in offices, classrooms, staffrooms, and school libraries. Heads of institutions are required to prepare a detailed report if any objectionable content is found, including the book's title, year of publication, author, publisher, and the number of copies identified.
Institutions must submit a compliance report or certificate to the concerned Chief Education Officer (CEO) or Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) within seven days from the date of the circular's issuance. The report must include an abstract of any objectionable content discovered.
Timeline for Submission and Consolidation
Zonal Education Officers are tasked with scrutinizing and consolidating all reports from schools and coaching centers under their jurisdiction. They must submit a consolidated report to the CEO by July 15. The CEOs of the Kashmir Division will then compile and submit the final report to the Directorate of School Education Kashmir by July 17.
The circular states that CEOs must personally monitor and follow up on the certificates issued by heads of institutions or ZEOs. These certificates must be countersigned by the concerned CEO before submission to the Directorate.
Disciplinary Action for Non-Compliance
The DSEK has warned that any lapse in compliance with the instructions will invite appropriate disciplinary action against defaulting officers. The directive underscores the authorities' commitment to ensuring that educational materials uphold national interest and educational values.
