They see certain ideas, beliefs, institutions, literature, religious spaces or political narratives as indirectly contributing to extremism, even if they are not involved in violence themselves, he says.
“The concern is whether executive actions like banning schools, literature or organisations leave meaningful space for review, accountability and constitutional safeguards.”
That scrutiny has also increasingly extended beyond schools.
Earlier this year, authorities seized 668 books from bookstores and distributors across India-administered Kashmir, alleging the publications promoted extremist ideology linked to banned organisations.
Critics argued the raids reflected growing restrictions on political, religious and intellectual expression.
“Kashmir has historically been shaped by pluralism, coexistence and Sufi traditions,” Bhat says.
“When Muslim institutions are viewed primarily through the lens of extremism, it creates resentment and alienation.”
‘Not a proportionate response’
A lawyer at the Kashmir High Court in Srinagar, who requested anonymity, questioned both the timing and proportionality of the closures.
“Authorities cannot shut Jamia Siraj-ul-Uloom in the middle of an academic session, as it directly affects students and parents, who are left without immediate alternatives,” he says.
The lawyer noted that the seminary had operated as a registered institution for years without reported criminal incidents.
“A prior notice of 4–6 months should have been issued so that students could be shifted smoothly. By abruptly closing it, the rights of students and the institution have been affected.
“If a few individuals are alleged to be involved in wrongdoing, they must be dealt with individually,” he says.
“Shutting down an entire institution serving hundreds of students is not a proportionate response.”
For families, however, the immediate crisis has been the sudden disruption to students’ lives.
Abdul Rashid Sheikh, a parent whose son attended the seminary, says many schools were unwilling to admit displaced students because the academic year was already underway.
“The sudden closure shocked everyone,” he says. “He keeps asking what will happen to his education.”
“In our view, graduates were more studious, respectful and disciplined,” Sheikh tells TRT World.
“Parents were satisfied with the education and environment.”
On May 12, Nidash Ahmad, 14, an eighth-grader at the seminary, packed his books, blankets, and clothes into a trunk and left what he called his “second home”.
“I feel reluctant to leave these premises,” he says. “I loved studying here. The environment suited me perfectly and I had adapted completely to it.”
As students emptied hostels and classrooms, many families described scenes of confusion and grief.
“Leaving my room, friends and teachers is heartbreaking right now,” Nidash says.
“This seminary transformed me into a disciplined learner and a better human being. It is a difficult time for us.”
