Background of the Takeover

On August 22, 2025, the Jammu and Kashmir government issued an order to take over the management of 215 schools affiliated with the banned Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) and its educational wing, Falah-e-Aam Trust (FAT). This decision follows the Union Ministry of Home Affairs’ declarations in February 2019 and February 2024, which labeled JeI an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act due to its alleged anti-national activities. Intelligence reports identified these schools as directly or indirectly linked to JeI, with expired or adversely reported managing committees, prompting the government to act to safeguard the academic future of approximately 60,000 students enrolled in these institutions.

Implementation Process

The takeover process began on August 23, 2025, with teams from district administrations, accompanied by police and principals of nearby government higher secondary schools, visiting the 215 schools across the Kashmir Valley to assume control. District Magistrates or Deputy Commissioners have been tasked with overseeing the management and proposing new managing committees after thorough verification. The process is designed to ensure minimal disruption to students’ education, with authorities emphasizing that the academic careers of enrolled students will remain unaffected.

Distribution of Schools

The schools are spread across multiple districts in the Kashmir Valley, with Baramulla having the highest number at 53, followed by Anantnag with 37, Kupwara with 36, Pulwama with 21, Budgam with 20, Kulgam with 16, Shopian with 15, Bandipora and Ganderbal with six each, and Srinagar with four. Some institutions also operate in parts of the Jammu region. This widespread distribution underscores the significant influence of JeI-affiliated schools in the region, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where FAT schools gained popularity since their establishment in 1972.

Political Reactions and Controversies

The takeover has sparked varied responses. The Jammu and Kashmir BJP, led by vice president Priya Sethi, welcomed the move, stating it curtails radicalization and ensures education free from separatist influence. However, Education Minister Sakina Itoo claimed the order was modified without her knowledge, asserting her original proposal was for nearby government school principals to temporarily manage these schools, not for Deputy Commissioners to take over permanently. Opposition parties, including the Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and People’s Conference, condemned the decision, with PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti arguing it targets quality education providers and reflects administrative overreach.

Implications for Education and Society

The government’s action aims to enhance oversight, ensure transparency, and align these schools with mainstream educational goals. Authorities have assured that the jobs of nearly 4,000 staff members and the education of students will remain secure. Critics, however, view the move as politically sensitive, potentially alienating communities that relied on these schools. The takeover is part of broader efforts to curb the influence of JeI, which was banned for alleged ties to militant groups and subversive activities, and reflects ongoing tensions between security measures and local governance in the region.

  Jamaat-e-Islami Affiliated Schools, JeI