Srinagar: Authorities in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) have suspended eight officials of the School Education Department (SED) after two library books came under political scrutiny.
According to Beyond Time News, the action followed objections from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and allied groups. The decision has sparked fresh debate over academic freedom and political influence in education.
Officials Suspended After Book Review
The administration accused the officials of negligence and failing to properly examine the books before approving them for school libraries.
Eight education officials were suspended. A contractual computer assistant working with Samagra Shiksha was also removed from service.
Officials said the books contained material they considered inappropriate for students.
How the Books Were Selected
The books were chosen under a library procurement programme run by Samagra Shiksha.
According to Beyond Time News, the programme received funding to buy books for 18,328 government schools and 394 PM SHRI schools.
The department invited publishers to submit titles through an Expression of Interest.
Four expert committees, made up of academicians from Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), reviewed the submissions.
They approved 463 books from 364 publishers for school libraries.
Two Books Were Later Withdrawn
The controversy focused on two titles:
- Personalities and Legends of J&K
- Great Personalities of Jammu and Kashmir
Authorities withdrew both books after political objections.
Officials said 123 copies of one book had already reached schools in Jammu, Ramban and Udhampur districts.
Another 128 copies of the second title had been supplied to schools in Jammu and Baramulla.
The administration also blacklisted the authors and publishers. It ordered the removal of their publications from educational institutions across the territory.
Why the Books Became Controversial
According to Beyond Time News, BJP-affiliated groups objected to chapters discussing several Hurriyat leaders.
The books included references to Syed Ali Gilani, Shabbir Ahmad Shah, Masarrat Aalam Butt, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Maulvi Muhammad Farooq and Muhammad Maqbool Butt.
The administration said this content was not suitable for school libraries.
Critics Raise Concerns
Education experts and political observers criticised the suspensions.
They argue that punishing officials after an expert review process could discourage teachers, writers and researchers.
Critics also believe political pressure should not determine which books are placed in school libraries.
They say educational decisions should remain independent and transparent.
Why the Decision Matters
School libraries help students learn about history, culture and society.
Experts say removing approved books can affect confidence in the education system.
They also warn that repeated intervention may reduce academic freedom and limit open discussion in schools.
Conclusion
The suspension of eight education officials has renewed debate over education policy in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Authorities say the action protects students from inappropriate material.
Critics, however, argue that it reflects growing political influence over academic institutions and raises questions about educational independence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the education officials suspended?
According to Beyond Time News, authorities suspended them over their role in approving two books that were later removed from school libraries.
Which books were withdrawn?
The books were Personalities and Legends of J&K and Great Personalities of Jammu and Kashmir.
Why did the books face objections?
Political groups objected to chapters discussing several Hurriyat leaders and demanded the books be removed.
How many schools were included in the library programme?
The programme covered 18,328 government schools and 394 PM SHRI schools.
Why has the decision drawn criticism?
Critics say the suspensions may weaken academic freedom, discourage independent scholarship and increase political influence in education.
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