Key Facts

• The order requires schools, colleges, and coaching centers to check books, research papers, and theses for content violating laws or religious sentiments.
• Authorities want to remove material they say promotes terrorism, violent extremism, secessionism, or harms national security.
• Opposition groups and academics argue the order limits academic freedom and tries to erase parts of Kashmir’s complex history.
• The region has seen ongoing conflict, including a separatist insurgency and disputes between India and Pakistan over Kashmir.
• The order came after protests over two school books accused of glorifying separatist leaders; these books were withdrawn and related publishers and officials faced action.
• Earlier, authorities banned 25 books, including works by prominent authors, claiming they contained false information or supported secessionism.
• Experts say such restrictions raise concerns about freedom of speech and the government’s role in shaping acceptable historical narratives.
• Kashmir has experienced tighter government control and reduced civil liberties since its special autonomy was revoked in 2019.