The Counter Intelligence (CI) wing of the Jammu and Kashmir Police has initiated a significant investigation into two publications allegedly containing material that glorifies separatists. Simultaneous searches were conducted on Monday at the headquarters of Samagra Shiksha in Channi Himmat, Jammu, and at the office of one of the publishers in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Officials stated that the searches were ongoing as of the latest reports.
The publications under intense scrutiny are titled ‘Personalities and Legends of J&K’, authored by Hilal Ahmad and Santosh Meena and published by Jammu-based Oberoi Book Service, and ‘Great Personalities of Jammu and Kashmir’, authored by Sushant Giri and published by Delhi-based Anurag Prakashan. These books have drawn severe criticism from various political parties and other groups who allege that their content promotes separatist ideologies. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the investigation is focused on identifying the full extent of the distribution and the individuals responsible for the content’s inclusion.
In response to the controversy, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha took swift action on Saturday. He ordered the suspension of eight officials from the School Education Department and the removal of a contractual employee. Furthermore, an inquiry has been launched into the contents of both books, which the Lieutenant Governor described as “highly inappropriate.” The School Education Department had previously withdrawn both books from circulation on Friday following widespread objections to their content.
According to official sources, a substantial number of copies of these books were distributed to educational institutions. Specifically, 123 copies of one publication were supplied to schools in the districts of Jammu, Ramban, and Udhampur. Similarly, 128 copies of the other book were distributed across Jammu and Baramulla districts. This widespread distribution to schools has amplified concerns about the potential impact on students.
A First Information Report (FIR) was registered on Saturday under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Section 49 (abetment), Section 61(2) (criminal conspiracy), Section 152 (endangering the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India), Section 196 (promoting enmity and disharmony), and Section 353 (publishing or circulating false statements, rumours or reports). Additionally, Section 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act has also been invoked, indicating the gravity with which the authorities are treating the matter. The Counter Intelligence unit commenced its searches following the registration of this case.
During the searches at the publisher’s premises in Bahu Plaza, Jammu city, investigators seized physical documents and digital evidence. Officials confirmed that while the searches have yielded crucial evidence, no arrests have been made thus far. The investigation aims to uncover the entire chain of command and responsibility involved in the publication and dissemination of the controversial material. This development underscores the sensitivity surrounding narratives related to the region’s history and political landscape, and the government’s commitment to ensuring that educational materials align with national integrity and societal harmony.
The controversy highlights a broader debate about the content being introduced into educational curricula, particularly in regions with a complex political history. Authorities are keen to ensure that textbooks and supplementary reading materials promote national unity and do not inadvertently endorse or glorify elements that have been detrimental to peace and stability. The Counter Intelligence wing’s proactive approach in conducting these searches signals a determined effort to address such issues at their root, involving publishers, educational authorities, and potentially other stakeholders. The ongoing inquiry is expected to shed more light on the processes that allowed these books to reach schools and the individuals who approved their content. The seizure of digital evidence is particularly critical, as it could reveal communication trails and decision-making processes within the publishing houses and the education department.
The implications of such publications extend beyond mere academic content; they can influence public perception and historical understanding, especially among young minds. The swift action taken by the Lieutenant Governor’s administration, including the suspension of officials and the registration of an FIR, demonstrates a zero-tolerance policy towards content that could be construed as undermining national sovereignty or promoting divisive ideologies. The Counter Intelligence sleuths are meticulously examining all seized materials to build a comprehensive case, ensuring that accountability is established and preventive measures are strengthened to avoid recurrence. The focus remains on the integrity of educational content and its role in fostering a cohesive and unified society within Jammu and Kashmir and the nation at large.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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