The Poonch book mafia issue has come under sharp focus after Congress leader Naeem Ajaz Mir alleged that private schools in the district are exploiting parents through monopolistic practices in the sale of books and stationery.
POONCH MIRROR NEWS DESK APRIL 2, 2026
By: Praupkar Singh City Reporter PM
Poonch, April 2: Senior Congress leader Naeem Ajaz Mir has expressed serious concern over the growing allegations of a “book mafia” operating within private schools in Poonch, accusing institutions of exploiting parents through unfair and monopolistic practices.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Mir said that several private schools in the district are frequently forcing parents to purchase textbooks, notebooks, and stationery only from specific shops or vendors designated by the schools. He termed the practice as a violation of government norms, which prohibit schools from compelling parents to buy study material from particular outlets.
He further stated that such practices are becoming increasingly common in Poonch, placing a significant financial burden on families, particularly those from economically weaker backgrounds.
“Education should not be commercialised in a way that leaves parents with no choice but to bear unnecessary expenses,” Mir said, adding that the issue requires urgent attention from the authorities.
The Congress leader also pointed out that many schools introduce new editions of books every academic session, making previous materials obsolete and forcing parents to spend more each year. He described this as a deliberate attempt to increase costs under the guise of academic requirements.
Calling for immediate intervention, Mir urged the Jammu and Kashmir Education Department to take strict action against schools found violating rules. He also demanded the establishment of a transparent mechanism for the selection and distribution of books to ensure affordability and fairness.
He emphasized that accountability measures, including inspections and penalties, are essential to curb such practices and protect the interests of students and parents.
Mir warned that unchecked exploitation in the education sector could undermine the principle of equal access to education and erode public trust in private institutions.
He appealed to the government to act swiftly to regulate private schools and ensure that education remains accessible, transparent, and free from commercial exploitation.
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