Why is India vetting books in Kashmir in search of ‘anti-national’ content?
Summary
Authorities in Indian-controlled Kashmir are checking books in libraries and schools to remove content they consider harmful or promoting separatism. This effort follows a political demand to ban books that include positive mentions of Kashmiri separatist leaders. The government wants to prevent any material it sees as promoting violence or harming India’s unity.Key Facts
- Indian officials ordered all Kashmir educational institutions to review books, journals, theses, and digital content for “objectionable” material.
- The review focuses on content that promotes terrorism, secession, radical ideas, or harms national unity.
- The investigation started after a BJP politician demanded a ban on a book praising Kashmiri separatists.
- The book “Personalities and Legends of J&K” includes figures like Maqbool Bhat, called a “martyr” in the book but considered a terrorist by India.
- Kashmir is a disputed region claimed by both India and Pakistan.
- In 2019, India removed Kashmir’s semi-autonomous status and increased direct control.
- Since then, there have been crackdowns on protests, activists, journalists, and educational institutions.
- Some books under government-sponsored programs were accused of encouraging unrest or “academic jihad,” a term used by critics to describe perceived ideological influence.
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