The Directorate of School Education Jammu (DSEJ) has mandated a thorough review of all library books present in government and private schools, along with coaching centres across the Jammu division. The directive aims to ensure that educational materials adhere to established norms and do not contain any objectionable content.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the decision follows a recent controversy concerning the approval of books for school libraries. A circular issued by the Director School Education Jammu instructs all Heads of Institutions (HOIs) to meticulously examine every book, including recently acquired and older publications found in classrooms, libraries, offices, and staff rooms. The objective is to identify and remove any material that might offend religious sentiments, contravene prevailing laws, undermine educational values, or violate established societal norms.
The review exercise is intended to ensure that all reading material aligns with age-appropriate guidelines and the objectives set forth by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Institutions found to have any objectionable material are required to prepare a detailed report specifying the book’s title, author, publisher, and the number of copies available.
Schools, private educational institutions, and coaching centres have been directed to submit a compliance certificate to their respective Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs). This certificate must affirm that all books have undergone a thorough examination, no objectionable material is present on the premises, and that the library collection conforms to the NEP 2020 guidelines. For institutions identifying objectionable material, the certificate must be accompanied by the detailed report.
A strict timeline has been established for this process. Schools are required to submit their reports to the ZEOs by July 13. Following this, ZEOs are tasked with scrutinizing these reports and forwarding consolidated findings to the Chief Education Officers (CEOs) by July 15. The CEOs, in turn, must submit certified reports to the DSEJ by July 17, ensuring oversight and compliance throughout the division.
The Directorate has also appointed a committee, comprising the Joint Director (JSK) range and the Joint Director (Elementary Education), to collect district-wise reports and present a final consolidated report to the Director. The DSEJ has underscored the seriousness of this directive, warning that any lapse in its implementation will be viewed critically, potentially leading to disciplinary proceedings against defaulting officers under applicable rules.
The Chenab Times News Desk