Srinagar: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Friday announced the takeover of 215 private schools alleged to have links with the Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its affiliate, the Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT). The move, which the administration says is aimed at regulating institutions under proscribed organisations, has sparked political controversy across the region, reported the Kashmir Observer.
The Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier declared Jamaat-e-Islami, J&K, as an “unlawful association” under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Acting on this, the School Education Department issued an order stating that many schools were found “directly or indirectly affiliated” with the group.
According to the directive signed by Secretary Ram Niwas Sharma, district magistrates and deputy commissioners will assume interim control of the institutions and form oversight committees after verification. The majority of the schools—over 80—are in Baramulla, followed by 37 in Anantnag and six in Bandipora.
Education Minister Sakina Itoo clarified that government school principals in the vicinity would take charge of daily management instead of deputy commissioners.
The decision drew sharp criticism from opposition parties. J&K People’s Conference chief Sajad Lone termed it “hypocrisy,” while the Justice and Development Front (JDF), comprising members of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami, J&K called it an “administrative overreach” and a “painful reminder” of past betrayals by the National Conference. The group demanded withdrawal of the order, calling it an “arbitrary ban” that violates children’s right to education.
PDP leader Iltija Mufti also alleged that Jamaat-e-Islami, J&K has always been politically targeted whenever the National Conference held power.
Jamaat-e-Islami J&K was banned in 2019 under UAPA for alleged links with militancy and separatism. The ban was extended for another five years in 2024. Earlier this year, police in Srinagar also seized over 660 books connected to the group’s ideology. JeI is completely separate and a different organization and is not the same as Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH).
