J&K Police Launch Raids on Bookshops Across Kashmir to Seize Banned Literature – Alfaaz – The Words

Alfaaz – The Words Desk

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Police have launched coordinated raids across several districts to seize and prevent the circulation of literature recently banned by the government for allegedly promoting secessionist ideology and glorifying terrorism.

The raids, carried out under legal supervision, targeted bookshops and distributors in Ganderbal, Shopian, Kulgam, Handwara, Yaripora and other locations. The police action follows a notification issued by the Home Department declaring 25 books as forfeited under Section 98 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.

In Ganderbal, police conducted thorough searches in areas under the jurisdiction of Police Stations Ganderbal, Safapora, Lar, Gund, and Kangan, as well as Police Posts Nagbal and Shadipora. Officers ensured that no banned literature was in circulation, and warned shopkeepers against possessing or selling such material.

Similarly, in Shopian’s Zainapora area, a team led by the Deputy Superintendent of Police and the Station House Officer carried out inspections. Though no prohibited books were found, bookshop owners were sternly cautioned and educated on the legal implications of stocking such literature.

In Kulgam, similar operations were undertaken to ensure strict compliance with the government directive. Police reiterated their commitment to maintaining public order and national integrity and urged citizens to report any circulation of banned content.

The crackdown comes in the backdrop of a notification issued on August 5, wherein the Jammu and Kashmir Home Department under Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, declared 25 books as promoting “false narrative and secessionism, inciting violence, glorifying terrorism, and distorting historical facts”. The government also stated that the notified books “have played a role in radicalizing youth and undermining the sovereignty of India.”