A book allegedly cleared for government school libraries in Jammu and Kashmir has triggered a political row after claims that it glorifies terrorists and separatist leaders, refers to the region as "Indian Held Kashmir" and "Indian Occupied Kashmir", and bears the logo of Samagra Shiksha, J&K. The controversy has intensified, with the BJP demanding accountability and alleging that the publication was distributed across government schools in the Union Territory.
The book, titled Personalities and Legends of J&K, has come under scrutiny over its alleged content and its reported circulation in government school libraries.
According to the allegations, the book refers to JKLF terrorist Maqbool Bhat as a "Shaheed". It is also alleged to portray separatist leaders Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Masarat Alam and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq in a favourable manner.
The BJP has further claimed that the publication praises Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks.
The book has also drawn criticism for allegedly describing Jammu and Kashmir as "Indian Held Kashmir" and "Indian Occupied Kashmir".
It is further reported to carry the logo of Samagra Shiksha, J&K, prompting questions about how it was approved for distribution in government school libraries.
BJP seeks accountability
Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Sunil Sharma, alleged that copies of the book had been supplied to libraries in several schools across the Union Territory.
"These books have been distributed to libraries in numerous schools across Jammu and Kashmir. This is a grave offence. A book that praises Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai attacks; a book that refers to the region as 'Indian-occupied Kashmir' - such a book is objectionable and controversial. It must be banned immediately," Sharma said.
He also called for accountability from everyone involved in approving the publication.
"Be it the author, the publisher, the expert committee, and I wish to emphasise this, even the Education Minister, must be held accountable. It is the duty of the head of the government to immediately remove the Education Minister," he said.
Sharma further alleged that the publication was part of a larger conspiracy.
"There is absolutely no doubt that there is a specific agenda behind this; it is a massive conspiracy. We have no doubt that the National Conference government is involved in this from top to bottom," he said.
Book withdrawn, inquiry initiated
Following the widespread backlash, authorities have withdrawn the book and ordered a high-level inquiry into the process through which it was approved and distributed in government school libraries.
The investigation will examine the role of those involved in the publication, approval and circulation of the book, while demands continue for action against anyone found responsible.
