Why is India vetting books in Kashmir in search of ‘anti-national’ content?

Authorities in Indian-administered Kashmir are conducting a widespread review of books in prominent libraries and educational institutions, searching for content deemed "objectionable" or "anti-national." The government issued an order on July 9 directing all educational institutions to vet books, journals, dissertations, and digital resources.

The directive aims to "prevent the procurement, circulation or retention of any publication containing misleading, factually incorrect, distorted, inflammatory, unlawful or otherwise objectionable material." Specifically, it targets content that "directly or indirectly promotes, glorifies, legitimises or justifies terrorism, violent extremism, secessionism, radicalisation, communal disharmony or any activity prejudicial to the sovereignty, unity, integrity and security of nation."

An investigation has also been ordered to determine how books with alleged "seditious content" entered public libraries and educational institutions. Initially focused on school libraries, the inquiry was expanded to include research publications, dissertations, journals, and digital content held by universities.

The crackdown gained momentum earlier this month after a politician from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) called for a ban on the book "Personalities and Legends of J&K." The book features prominent regional figures, including politicians, activists, authors, and historians. However, authorities objected to the inclusion of key Kashmiri separatists, such as Maqbool Bhat, a former separatist leader executed in 1984.