Jammu University Initiates Audit of Library Books for Separatist Content

The University of Jammu has announced a significant initiative to conduct a thorough audit of its libraries, offices, and digital repositories with the aim of identifying and removing any materials deemed to contain “anti-national, separatist, or objectionable content.” This decision was made public through a circular issued by the university’s registrar on Wednesday, and it has generated considerable attention in the wake of recent political developments in the region.

The university’s directive comes shortly after protests from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding certain books that were made available in government schools. The protest accused the National Conference-led government in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir of promoting what they termed as “academic jihad.” As a direct response to these protests, two books were retracted from school libraries, and a series of administrative actions were taken, which included the suspension of eight officials and the termination of a contractual employee for their roles in the controversial procurement.

The books at the center of the controversy were “Personalities and Legends of J&K” by Hilal Ahmed and Santosh Meena, and “Great Personalities of Jammu and Kashmir” by Dr. Sushant Giri. These works, which were distributed to school libraries under the Samagra Shiksha program for higher secondary education, faced backlash for allegedly promoting separatist narratives. In addition, law enforcement conducted searches at the premises of a publisher associated with one of the contested titles, further intensifying scrutiny around educational content in the region.

In light of these developments, the University of Jammu’s administration is taking proactive steps to establish a more robust framework for the procurement of academic materials. As part of this initiative, a committee will be formed to develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the acquisition of books and other educational resources. This will include a comprehensive screening process, along with periodic and random checks by a panel of academicians to ensure the integrity of the university’s academic environment.

The university’s actions reflect a broader national narrative regarding educational content and its alignment with national interests, particularly in sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir. By implementing these measures, the University of Jammu aims to foster a learning atmosphere that is consistent with the government’s stance on national integrity and unity, while also facing the complexities of academic freedom and expression within the realm of higher education.

Source: scroll.in