SRINAGAR, July 4: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has ordered the immediate withdrawal of a controversial book from government school libraries and initiated action against those responsible for its approval, procurement and distribution.
The controversy erupted after the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples’ Forum (JKPF) alleged that the book, supplied to schools under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme, glorified separatist leaders and terrorists by portraying them as “great personalities” and “legends” of Jammu and Kashmir.
The issue gained further attention after Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma demanded the book’s immediate withdrawal, a high-level inquiry and action against those responsible, alleging that it promoted an anti-national narrative.
Commissioner Secretary, School Education Department, Ram Niwas Sharma, confirmed that the publication has been withdrawn from all government schools with immediate effect.
“The book has been withdrawn. Action is being taken against all concerned,” Sharma said.
He said all copies of the publication have been recalled from schools and proceedings have been initiated against those involved in its publication, approval, procurement and circulation.
According to the official, the controversial book, titled “Great Personalities and Legends”, was supplied to schools in June 2026 and withdrawn on July 3, 2026.
The government’s decision follows widespread criticism from opposition parties and various organisations, which alleged that the book contained objectionable and anti-national content.
Meanwhile, School Education Minister Sakina Itoo was unavailable for comment when the report was filed.
