– Zaina Aman
Srinagar, Uttarakhand – A book fair at HNB Garhwal University on February 15-16 was cancelled. Organizers alleged pressure from right-wing groups. The event was later planned at Ramlila Ground but was blocked. RSS booked the venue a day after organizers applied.
The fair’s coordinator claimed ABVP opposed books on Gandhi and Nehru. The university revoked permission, citing ongoing exams. Officials denied political interference.
SDM Nupur Verma said, “The cancellation was due to scheduling conflicts. The venue was already booked. Spreading misinformation is wrong.”
NSUI condemned the move, calling it a setback for Srinagar. Leaders Ankit Sundriyal and Mukul Kumar urged shifting the fair to Pauri. The event was to feature 75,000 books and artist Narendra Singh Negi.
Sundriyal said, “This isn’t just about books. It’s about cultural heritage. Any group blocking education isn’t a student organization.” Negi also expressed disappointment online.
Organizers called it a political move. They said discouraging such events hurts young readers.
Historian Jai Singh Rawat criticized, “The fear of books shows their power. Political interference weakens democracy. It undermines Article 19.”
The issue has sparked debate on academic freedom, political influence, and intellectual discourse.
