The Jammu and Kashmir School Education Department has directed all schools in the union territory to screen every book and piece of literature available in their libraries and classrooms to identify and remove any objectionable content. The order follows reports that certain books and materials containing anti-national and separatist ideas were being circulated in educational institutions.
Official Directive Issued to All Schools
According to an official statement released on July 9, 2026, the directive applies to both government and private schools across all districts. The screening process must cover textbooks, reference books, storybooks, and any supplementary reading materials. Schools have been asked to form internal committees to carry out the review and submit a compliance report within two weeks.
“The move is aimed at ensuring that no material that promotes secessionist or anti-national sentiments is available to students,” the department said in a circular. It added that any book found to contain such content should be immediately withdrawn and reported to the higher authorities.
Background of the Decision
The decision comes amid growing concerns about the influence of separatist propaganda on young minds in the region. Over the past few months, several instances were reported where books with references to anti-India narratives were found in school libraries. In some cases, teachers were also found to be using unauthorized materials that questioned the sovereignty of India.
“We have received complaints from parents and local community members about certain books that glorify militancy and challenge the territorial integrity of India,” said an education department official who spoke on condition of anonymity. “It is our duty to protect students from such harmful ideologies.”
Implementation and Monitoring
To ensure strict compliance, the department has instructed chief education officers in each district to oversee the screening process. Schools have been warned of strict action, including the cancellation of recognition, if they fail to comply. The directive also mandates that all new books purchased in the future must be pre-approved by the department.
“This is a preventive measure to safeguard the educational environment,” the circular stated. “We encourage schools to foster critical thinking but within the framework of national unity and integrity.”
Reactions and Concerns
While some educators have welcomed the step as necessary for national security, others have expressed concerns about potential overreach. “The intention is good, but the implementation must be careful not to suppress academic freedom,” said a principal of a private school in Srinagar, requesting anonymity. “We need clear guidelines on what constitutes objectionable content.”
The order has also sparked debate among civil society groups, with some arguing that it could lead to censorship of legitimate historical or political discourse. However, the department has clarified that the focus is only on materials that explicitly advocate violence or secession.
