A book titled Personalities and Legends of J&K, which was recently barred by the Jammu and Kashmir government, has been available in Jammu University’s Central Library since 2022. The book, written by Hilal Ahmed and Santosh Meena, was procured by the Political Science Department following a request by several students and research scholars. However, it has now been ‘sealed’ and ‘removed’ from the library after allegations that it contained chapters glorifying separatist leaders and militants.
The book was first published by Delhi-based Paradise Press in 2017, and it was this edition that was procured by the university. Jammu University officials stated that the book was procured following a request by students and research scholars in the Political Science Department. However, there were very few requisitions by students to borrow it.
A comprehensive academic and content audit of academic material in colleges, universities, and public libraries across the Union Territory has been ordered. The audit aims to check for material that directly or indirectly promotes, glorifies, legitimizes, or justifies terrorism, violent extremism, secessionism, radicalization, or any activity prejudicial to the sovereignty, unity, integrity, and security of the nation.
At Jammu University, officials said they have been going through the institute’s entire collection in response to the audit. They have not come across a single publication that can be held ‘objectionable’ on the grounds listed. The university has a robust and transparent system to procure books from vendors empanelled by them, and as per the terms and conditions of the university.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested three publishers over the two controversial books, including Personalities and Legends of J&K and Great Personalities of Jammu and Kashmir. The authors and publishing houses concerned have been barred from publishing any other material in the Union Territory. The J&K government has also suspended eight officials of the School Education Department and terminated one contractual employee.
The J&K Education Minister described the circulation of the two books in schools as ‘unfortunate’ and ‘a deliberate conspiracy,’ and promised strict action against those involved. The Counter-Intelligence Unit of the J&K Police got 10-day custody of the three publishers, and searches are on to track down the writers of the books as well.
