Police probe school book profiling separatist leaders in J&K

The Counter Intelligence unit of Jammu and Kashmir Police on Monday visited the office of Samagra Shiksha in Jammu as part of an investigation into a book titled 'Great Personalities and Legends of J&K'. The book, used in schools, includes profiles of individuals whom authorities consider separatist leaders, including Maqbool Bhat, Masarat Alam, Shabir Shah, and Syed Ali Geelani.

Officials confirmed that a team from the police special cell conducted the visit to the Samagra Shiksha headquarters at Channi Himmat. Several officials were questioned in connection with the matter.

The book, authored by Hilal Ahmad and Santosh Meena, had around 251 copies distributed among schools in Jammu and Kashmir. Authorities stated that four sub-committees of experts were formed for the selection of books.

Following objections raised by the Bharatiya Janata Party, a First Information Report has been registered. The office of the Lieutenant Governor has already suspended eight officers and blacklisted the authors and publishers of the book.

In response to the controversy, Samagra Shiksha on Monday reconstituted verification committees to undertake a comprehensive review of all textbooks and library books procured under the Library Component for the academic session 2025–26. The committees have been directed 'to ensure that no objectionable words, misleading references, inappropriate content or unsuitable material remain in any publication'.

Additionally, Samagra Shiksha decided to 'withhold all payments to publishers until the verification process is completed'. The directive states that no publisher will receive payment unless the committees certify that the books fully comply with prescribed academic and quality standards. All pending bills will remain suspended until the verification reports are submitted and approved by the competent authority.