JAMMU, Jul 3: Jammu Kashmir Peoples’ Forum (JKPF), a social and non-political organisation, on Friday expressed serious concern over the contents of a book titled “Great Personalities and Legends of J&K (Series 4),” published by Oberai Books Service and edited by Hilal Ahmed and Santosh Meena. The organisation alleged that the book, which it claims was procured under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme during the 2025–26 academic session and distributed to school libraries, contains material that is inappropriate for educational institutions.
Addressing a press briefing, JKPF representatives said the organisation has been working since 2009 on issues of national and social importance and was deeply disturbed by the inclusion of chapters on individuals such as Maqbool Bhat, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Shabir Ahmad Shah, Masarat Alam, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Maulvi Farooq. According to JKPF, the book presents these figures as “great personalities” of Jammu and Kashmir and uses language that the organisation believes glorifies their roles.
JKPF specifically objected to portions of the chapter on Maqbool Bhat, alleging that it refers to him using honorific terms and presents his life in a manner that the organisation considers inconsistent with historical and judicial records. The Forum stated that Bhat was convicted in a murder case, sentenced to death, and executed in Tihar Jail in 1984 following judicial proceedings. It further alleged that similar concerns exist regarding chapters on other separatist leaders, claiming that the content portrays their activities in a positive light.
The organisation questioned how the publication was selected for distribution in government school libraries under the Samagra Shiksha Scheme and sought clarification regarding the approval process. JKPF also raised concerns about the role of the committee that recommended the book for procurement under the National Education Policy framework.
Demanding immediate intervention, JKPF urged the Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir to order an independent inquiry into the matter. It called for the constitution of a committee comprising senior civil and police officers to examine the selection and distribution process.
The Forum further demanded that, if any violations of law or established procedures are found during the inquiry, appropriate action be taken against those responsible in accordance with the law. It also urged the authorities to review the circulation of the book in government and government-aided schools pending the outcome of the investigation.
JKPF said the matter concerns educational standards and public accountability and appealed to the authorities to examine the issue with urgency and transparency.