Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly refuted allegations linking him to the recent ban on 25 books in Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that the decision was taken entirely by the Lieutenant Governor’s administration.
In a pointed response to critics on social media platform X, Abdullah wrote, “Get your facts right before you call me a coward, you ignoramus. The ban has been imposed by the LG using the only department he officially controls — the Home Department. I’ve never banned books and I never would.”
Earlier this week, the Home Department ordered the ban on books alleged to contain content promoting secessionism, spreading false narratives, or threatening public order. In the current administrative arrangement, the department operates directly under the Lieutenant Governor, independent of the elected government.
Abdullah’s comments come amid growing political debate over the decision, with opposition leaders and civil society groups questioning its impact on freedom of expression. Since returning to power, the CM has positioned himself as a defender of civil liberties, often clashing with central authorities over policies he views as overreaching.
Observers say Abdullah’s emphatic denial aims to draw a clear line between his government’s stance and that of the LG-led administration, while reinforcing his opposition to censorship. The controversy has also reignited discussions in J&K over how security concerns should be weighed against constitutional freedoms( DD)
