Srinagar

The Jammu and Kashmir government has begun the process of taking over the management of 215 schools affiliated with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its affiliate, the Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT). The move aims to bring these institutions under proper regulation and ensure students receive education aligned with the national curriculum.

According to a government order, the Managing Committees of these schools will be taken over by the respective District Magistrates or Deputy Commissioners, who will propose new committees after verifying the institutions. Teams from the district administrations and the School Education Department have already started visiting the schools to initiate the transition. Authorities say teachers and staff will be assessed, and adjustments will be made where necessary to align with government norms.

A mother taking her child to school in Kashmir

“The decision has been taken in the interest of students. These schools will now follow government-approved guidelines and academic standards,” an official said, emphasizing that the academic career of the students will not be disrupted during the transition. The administration also stressed that quality education in accordance with National Education Policy (NEP) norms will be ensured.

Army personnel standing outside the school in Srinagar

Education Minister Sakina Itoo noted that around 221 schools had received negative verification from the CID, and the management committees of these schools had long expired. “These schools were facing registration issues, and the future of over 51,000 students was at stake. I had suggested that nearby school principals temporarily manage these institutions until verification,” she said.

Police outside Syed Jaffer Memorial Institute, Srinagar

The FAT schools, operating in several districts for decades, serve a considerable number of students, especially in rural areas. The government assured that the ongoing academic sessions would continue without interruption and that further directions regarding curriculum, fee structures, and staff arrangements would be announced as the transition progresses.

Army personnel standing outside the school in Srinagar

Parents have welcomed the move, expressing relief that the administration has stepped in. “We want our children to continue their studies without fear or uncertainty. If the government is taking responsibility, it is a good step,” said Mohammad Ashraf, a parent from Pulwama.

The Jamaat-e-Islami was banned in 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for alleged links with militancy. The Falah-e-Aam Trust, which runs these schools, is also under scrutiny for its association with the banned group.

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JKNC leader and MLA Reyaz Ahmad Khan, however, noted a difference between the government’s stated intention and the official order, pointing out that the administration is reviewing the matter.