Srinagar: The Jammu Kashmir Board of School Education has initiated firm action against several private schools found violating textbook guidelines by prescribing books from private publishers instead of the Board’s approved curriculum. Joint Secretary BOSE Shahnaz Choudhary told reporters that the Board had received multiple complaints from parents, prompting district-wide inspections that revealed widespread deviations in some institutions.
Choudhary said BOSE teams have been deployed across all districts to monitor compliance with the prescribed book list. She said that during recent inspections, four private schools were found distributing textbooks from private publications in clear violation of BOSE norms. “These four schools have been identified and we are moving toward ending their affiliation,” she said, adding that eight other schools have already been fined for similar violations.
The Joint Secretary said that government-prescribed BOSE books are economical, lighter for schoolbags and aligned with the academic standards required for students. She said private publication books are not only costlier but often add unnecessary academic and financial burden on parents. “Our books meet every required standard. Education must be student-friendly and not a burden. Schools have already been directed to stop prescribing books from private publications,” she said.
Choudhary as per the news agency Kashmir News Trust, also revealed that some schools had approached the court seeking permission to continue using private publication books. She said the court, after reviewing the matter, ruled in favour of BOSE, reinforcing the Board’s authority to enforce its textbook policy.
She requested parents to remain vigilant and report any violations. “Parents can register their complaints at our grievance cell. We will take immediate action,” she said. BOSE officials added that inspections will continue in the coming weeks, and more erring institutions may face penalties or de-affiliation based on findings.
The Board reiterated that uniform implementation of BOSE-prescribed books is essential for standardising learning outcomes and ensuring affordability for all families across the education system. [KNT]
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