J&K Govt Moves to Take Over 215 Schools Linked to Banned Jamaat-e-Islami

Speedy Summary

• The Jammu and Kashmir government initiated the process of taking over 215 schools affiliated with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT) on August 23, 2025.
• District management teams, accompanied by police officials and principals from nearby higher secondary schools, took control of the schools’ management.
• The move follows an order issued by the School Education Department to safeguard students’ educational future.
• Managing committees for these schools will be proposed by District Magistrates/Deputy Commissioners after verification.
• JeI was declared an unlawful association under India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in February 2019 and reconfirmed in February 2024. Intelligence agencies had flagged affiliations between these schools and proscribed organizations JeI/FAT.
• Authorities ensured that measures would be taken to prevent any disruption to students’ education during this transition.

Indian Opinion Analysis
While the government cites safeguarding students’ academic futures as its primary motive, this development raises significant questions about education access versus security concerns in sensitive regions like Jammu & Kashmir. Transitioning school management away from politically controversial entities may help isolate young minds from potential radical influences as per intelligence findings; however, ensuring continuity and quality of education will be essential for public buy-in to such measures. With active involvement from local administrative bodies, success will likely depend on effective oversight mechanisms that prioritize students above all else.

Read more: The Hindu