Srinagar : The Jammu and Kashmir government has issued a directive barring the education department from involving students and staff in political rallies or events. The move, announced through a circular by the School Education Department, aims to safeguard the neutrality of educational institutions in the region.
Background and Controversy
The decision follows intense backlash over a controversial directive from the Poonch Chief Education Officer, which required schools to send students and teachers to a Tiranga rally organized by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student wing of the RSS. The directive, which mandated participation of 40–50 students and two teachers from each school, was widely criticized, with opposition parties accusing the government of politicizing education.
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) condemned the order, alleging misuse of educational institutions for political purposes. PDP spokesperson Waheed Para criticized Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, accusing him of hypocrisy for allowing such directives after previously opposing similar actions.
New Guidelines Issued
In response to the controversy, the School Education Department issued a new circular explicitly prohibiting the involvement of students and staff in political events. It stated:
"All officers, including Chief Education Officers, Zonal Education Officers, and heads of institutions, are instructed not to grant permission or issue directions for students or staff to participate in any political event or rally organized by any political party or organization."
Education Minister Sakina Itoo emphasized the importance of adhering to this policy, instructing Chief Education Officers to ensure compliance and report any violations to the District Director of School Education.
Opposition Reactions
Opposition leaders, including PDP president Mehbooba Mufti’s daughter, Iltija Mufti, criticized the earlier directive, calling it an attempt to push ideological agendas. She accused the administration of using students to normalize divisive ideologies and condemned the participation of schools in events organized by the ABVP.
The controversy also extended to a separate incident in Doda, where officials were deputed for an ABVP-organized kabaddi and wrestling championship. Following public outcry, the deputation order was swiftly withdrawn.
Ensuring Neutrality in Education
The latest ban seeks to reinforce the apolitical nature of educational institutions in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring that schools remain focused on education rather than political agendas. This move underscores the government’s commitment to keeping the education system impartial and free from external influences.
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