The Jammu and Kashmir government, under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is under fire for a textbook purchased through the Samagra Shiksha Scheme that allegedly glorifies separatist leaders and terrorists. The Jammu and Kashmir Peoples’ Forum has strongly condemned the Chief Minister, accusing the textbook of romanticizing militancy and featuring figures like Maqbool Bhat, the founder of Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF). Critics and civil society members are demanding strict action against those responsible for recommending the book and the officials of the Samagra Shiksha Scheme.
The controversy has escalated with calls for criminal prosecution against those involved in distributing the book to school libraries. The incident has raised concerns about oversight by the elected Jammu and Kashmir government. Previously, tensions arose when the administration led by Omar Abdullah distanced itself from a ban on 25 books by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, which were also accused of glorifying terrorism. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah clarified that the ban decision was made by the Union Home Department under the L-G’s jurisdiction.
The book in question, titled “Great Personalities and Legends of J&K (Series-4),” has drawn criticism for portraying separatist leaders and individuals associated with terrorism, such as Syed Ali Shah Geelani, in a positive light. Distributing literature on behalf of a terrorist organization declared unlawful under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) can result in severe criminal charges. While the UAPA aims to address threats to India’s sovereignty and integrity, legal precedents emphasize the importance of proving actionable intent behind such literature rather than mere possession.
