Omar Abdullah Government Faces Criticism Over J&K School Textbook Content Allegations

The Jammu and Kashmir government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is facing criticism over allegations that a school textbook distributed under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme contains content that glorifies separatist leaders and individuals linked to militancy. The controversy has triggered political and civil society backlash in the Union Territory.

According to reports and statements from the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples’ Forum (JKPF), a social and non-political organisation, the textbook allegedly portrays certain separatist figures, including Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front founder Maqbool Bhat, in a positive light. The group has accused the administration of allowing educational material that “romanticises militancy” to be made available in school libraries.

Critics have demanded strict action against those responsible for recommending and approving the textbook, including officials associated with the Samagra Shiksha Scheme. They have also called for criminal proceedings against individuals involved in its distribution, arguing that such content is inappropriate for inclusion in school-level education materials.

Also Read: K C Venugopal Responds To CPI(M) Criticism Of Rahul Gandhi And INDIA Bloc

The book at the centre of the controversy is reportedly titled “Great Personalities and Legends of J&K (Series-4)”. It has been accused by critics of describing separatist leaders, including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, as “great personalities,” a characterization that has intensified the political debate over educational content and historical representation in school curricula.

The issue has also revived earlier tensions between the elected government and the Union Territory administration. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had previously distanced his government from a separate controversy involving the ban of 25 books alleged to contain similar content, stating that such decisions fall under the jurisdiction of the Union Home Department and the Lieutenant Governor’s office.

While critics cite provisions under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to demand strict legal action, legal experts note that judicial precedents require clear intent for prosecution in cases involving literature and speech. The matter has added to an ongoing debate over curriculum oversight, political sensitivities, and the boundaries of academic content in Jammu and Kashmir.

Also Read: Congress Raises Allegations Against Modi Government Over China Policy Approach