J&K BJP hails school takeover move, regional parties slam NC for ‘backing’ decision

A major political controversy erupted in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday over the government’s decision to take over the management of 215 schools allegedly affiliated with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI), with several regional parties accusing the National Conference (NC)-led administration of aligning with the BJP’s agenda.

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti strongly condemned the move, calling it “yet another attack on the institutions and identity of Jammu and Kashmir.”

“It is unfortunate that the ruling party is acting against its own people and implementing the BJP’s agenda,” Mufti told reporters. “If this was so important, why wasn’t it done during the L-G’s rule? Why now, under an elected government?”

Mufti further questioned the role of Education Minister Sakina Itoo, who had earlier claimed the official order was altered without her knowledge.

“If the minister is saying there’s confusion, let her cancel the order. She is the minister. Playing with the education system and the sentiments of people is not right,” she said, adding that the National Conference and BJP appear to be “on the same page.”

People’s Conference chief and Handwara MLA Sajad Lone also lashed out at the administration, saying, “215 schools forcibly taken over by the J&K Government. And no prizes for guessing — the elected government has passed the order. Shame and shamelessness have assumed new meanings in this government.”

“They are setting new standards in servility. Just recall the edicts this party passed against its opponents,” he added, taking a swipe at the NC.

Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari said the decision was “deeply regrettable.”

“Rather than assuming direct control, the government could have framed clear regulatory mechanisms to ensure the academic continuity of students without triggering controversy,” he said.

Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) of jailed MP Engineer Rashid said, “This reckless move proves that NC values power games more than education and stability for Kashmiri students.”

The Justice and Development Front, a faction of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami, also denounced the government’s move and urged authorities to revoke the order.

Amid the backlash, the National Conference defended the decision, blaming opposition parties for “amplifying misinformation.”

“Opposition never questions the L-G for meddling in civilian governance matters. Even after Education Minister Sakina Itoo’s clarification, PDP and others continue to amplify misinformation about 215 FAT schools. They are not concerned with education, but with being the Jamaat’s self-styled saviors,” NC spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar posted on X.

The BJP, meanwhile, welcomed the takeover. “With the government stepping in, 51,000 children will no longer be exposed to separatist ideology. Instead, they will now have opportunities to excel in academics, sports, technology, and other fields and contribute to the progress of the nation,” said BJP spokesperson Altaf Thakur.