I have often seen how schools are not just buildings but homes of hope for children. When the news broke that the government in Jammu and Kashmir had decided to take control of schools connected to the banned Jamaat-e-Islami, my first thought went to the faces of those children. These are over 51,000 young minds who walk into classrooms every morning with dreams of becoming doctors, teachers, engineers, and leaders. For them, the sudden uncertainty could have been frightening. But instead of shutting doors, the authorities have stepped in with an assurance—your education will not stop, your future will not be taken away.
Why the Takeover Was Ordered
The order traces back to intelligence reports and legal notifications. The Ministry of Home Affairs had declared Jamaat-e-Islami as an unlawful association in 2019, later extending its ban in 2024. Intelligence agencies flagged that schools linked directly or indirectly to JeI and its Falah-e-Aam Trust were still functioning. The government could not risk the possibility of children being exposed to ideologies instead of pure academics.
That is why 215 schools spread across ten districts of Kashmir, including Anantnag, Baramulla, Kupwara, Pulwama, Shopian, Budgam, and Srinagar, have now been taken over. Each district magistrate and deputy commissioner has been tasked with ensuring smooth management so that the academic careers of children remain unaffected.
The Scale of the Transition
The magnitude of this step is massive. Imagine 215 schools filled with more than 51,000 students and nearly 4,000 teaching and non-teaching staff suddenly shifting under new management. The government has promised that not a single student will suffer. From my own understanding, transitions like these can be unsettling, but the authorities have ensured that classes will continue without disruption. The promise is not just to continue education but to align these schools with the National Education Policy (NEP) standards, ensuring modern methods of learning and better resources for children.
The Role of Falah-e-Aam Trust Over the Years
The Falah-e-Aam Trust was created by Jamaat-e-Islami in 1972 and managed schools across Jammu and Kashmir. By 1990, it was itself declared unlawful under state laws. Over the decades, some schools shut down while others were taken over by community elders or merged with government-run schools. Yet, a large number still functioned under the shadow of FAT, creating suspicion among intelligence agencies.
What strikes me here is how communities tried to keep education alive even in difficult times. But the problem arose when the management was not transparent and carried political and ideological baggage. For children, schools should only mean one thing—education. This takeover finally gives them a chance to study in an environment free from fear and uncertainty.
Safeguarding the Future of Students
I can only imagine how parents must have felt when the news reached them. On one side, there was relief that their children’s education would continue; on the other, anxiety about what comes next. But officials have made it clear that quality education will be ensured. Teachers will continue to teach, but under a fresh system that prioritizes learning over any outside influence.
The government has also promised that new managing committees will be formed after thorough verification, bringing in trusted individuals. This step is crucial because at the end of the day, education is not about politics—it is about giving every child the same chance to grow and shine.
A Moment of Change for Kashmir’s Education
From my perspective, this entire episode marks a turning point. Education in Kashmir has always faced unique challenges, from conflict to closures, and now to restructuring. Yet, it is the resilience of students and their families that inspires hope. If this transition truly delivers on its promise of safeguarding students and improving their academic journey, then it is more than just a government order—it is the beginning of a new chapter for thousands of young lives.
Disclaimer
This article is written for informational purposes based on official orders and reports. It does not intend to target any community or belief but focuses solely on the educational and administrative aspects of the government’s decision.
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