Srinagar, July 9 (JKNS): Peoples Democratic Party leader and MLA Pulwama Waheed Ur Rehman Para has questioned the Jammu and Kashmir Government over the recent directive ordering a review of books in schools and coaching centres, saying the process of “unhistory” was unfolding under the administration itself.
In a post on X, Para, as per news agency JKNS, said he had no objection to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s proposed July 20 protest seeking restoration of statehood, but questioned where people should protest against decisions being taken by the government itself.
“No offence to CM Omar Abdullah Sahab’s protest programme, but the process of ‘unhistory’ is unfolding every day under your own administration and authority. Where are we supposed to protest against these orders?” MLA Para wrote.
His remarks came after the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) issued a circular directing all Government schools, recognised private schools and coaching centres to conduct a comprehensive review of books available in libraries, classrooms, staff rooms and offices to identify any material considered “objectionable” or against national interest.
The order followed a controversy surrounding certain books supplied under Samagra Shiksha Jammu and Kashmir after allegations surfaced that they contained separatist and anti-national content. Following the controversy, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha ordered immediate withdrawal of the books, suspended the officials responsible, and directed a comprehensive review of educational material across schools.
Subsequently, the School Education Department expanded the exercise by directing all educational institutions across Kashmir to screen books for content that could violate religious sentiments, contain inappropriate material for students, or contradict the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. (JKNS)
