Sandeep Bhat
Early Times Report
Jammu, Aug 24: Security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir have stepped up surveillance on several educational institutions, with a special focus on private schools, amid growing concerns over the alleged radicalisation of young minds—particularly female students.
According to sources, intelligence inputs have indicated a disturbing trend of ideological influence being subtly introduced within the classroom environment, prompting authorities to closely monitor certain institutions suspected of promoting extremist narratives.
Officials said that while no formal charges have yet been filed against any school, surveillance activities are being intensified as a precautionary measure to prevent the potential spread of radical ideologies among impressionable students.
Special attention is being paid to curriculum content, guest lectures, and extracurricular sessions that may be used to propagate controversial or divisive ideologies.
“The focus is not to interfere with the functioning of educational institutions, but to ensure that schools do not become platforms for the dissemination of extremist thoughts,” said a senior security official on Security agencies have stepped up surveillance on several educational institutions, with a special focus on private schools.
Intelligence inputs have indicated a disturbing trend of ideological influence being subtly introduced within the classroom environment.
No formal charges have yet been filed against any school, surveillance has been intensified as a precautionary measure to prevent the potential spread of radical ideologies.
Special attention is being paid to curriculum content, guest lectures, and extracurricular sessions that may be used to propagate controversial or divisive ideologies.
He added that the increased scrutiny is part of a broader effort to safeguard the academic environment and maintain peace in the region.
The development has also prompted the education department to initiate a parallel review of private school operations, especially their compliance with guidelines related to hiring, content delivery, and psychological counseling.
Some experts have expressed concern over the growing influence of unchecked online material and ideological messaging on social media platforms, which they say may be spilling over into offline spaces, including schools.
Meanwhile, security officials have reportedly urged school administrations to cooperate fully with inquiries and ensure that their institutions remain spaces of inclusive and balanced education.
The issue comes at a time when Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing both security challenges and ongoing efforts to restore normalcy through educational reform and youth engagement. Authorities have reiterated that while they respect the autonomy of educational institutions, safeguarding young minds remains a top priority in the region’s broader counter-radicalisation strategy. | 