J&K govt removes Baramulla CEO over social media gag order

Acting against the Chief Education Officer (CEO) who triggered a controversy by barring teachers from using social media, the Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday removed Bashir Ahmad Shah from the post of CEO Baramulla and attached him to the office of Directorate of School Education Kashmir.

The CEO had earlier directed all teaching and non-teaching staff of the School Education Department to refrain from criticising government policies on social media, warning that any violation could attract punitive action, including dismissal from service.

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An order issued by the School Education Department reads, “Pending inquiry, Bashir Ahmad Shah, In-charge Chief Education officer, Baramulla is hereby attached in the Directorate of School Education, Kashmir, with immediate effect. Further, the Chief Education Officer, Bandipora, shall hold the charge of the post of Chief Education Officer, Baramulla, and Principal, DIET Sopore, Baramulla, till further orders.”

The Joint Director Education (North), Kashmir, has been asked to conduct an inquiry into the matter and submit a report to the Administrative Department within 15 days.

The government said it remains committed to the welfare of citizens as well as employees, and warned that anyone interfering in official matters without proper authority will face appropriate action.

The CEO’s directive had sparked controversy, with opposition parties accusing the National Conference government of attempting to gag employees.