Kashmir: Clampdown on ‘objectionable’ books in schools sparks debate

Authorities in Indian-administered Kashmir have issued a sweeping order to all educational institutions to review books for “inappropriate and objectionable” content, in a move that has sparked a debate over who gets to shape the region’s history in classrooms.

The order, issued last week, directs schools, colleges, universities and coaching centres to screen all published material on their premises – including research papers and academic theses – for content that could violate “religious sentiments, laws, educational values and established norms”. They must also report books deemed objectionable to the authorities.

Authorities insist the directive is not about restricting reading but removing material they say is factually inaccurate or unlawful, including content that “promotes, glorifies, legitimises or justifies terrorism, violent extremism, secessionism, radicalisation” or any activity prejudicial to the security of the nation.

But opposition parties, academics and students say the move is an attack on academic freedom and an attempt to erase Kashmir’s turbulent history.

Kashmir, which neighbours India and Pakistan claim in full but only control in parts, has witnessed decades of conflict. From the late 1980s, the Indian-administered side also saw a separatist insurgency against Delhi’s rule, which India alleges was supported by Pakistan – a charge Islamabad denies.

Since Delhi revoked the region’s semi-autonomous status in 2019 and brought it under direct federal rule, critics say civil liberties have narrowed and state control has expanded, despite the restoration of an elected local government.