Recent revisions to NCERT ‘s Political Science textbooks for 2024, Classes 11 and 12 have sparked controversy, with critics alleging a saffronization of educational content.
Changes in Content
- References to Babri Masjid were replaced with “three-domed structure.”
- Reduced content on Ayodhya and the 2002 Gujarat riots.
- Omission of specific details on the religious identity of riot victims.
- Altered portrayal of historical events like Nehru’s criticism of communalism.
- Minimized references to the role of the BJP in the Ayodhya dispute.
- Highlighted legal aspects of the Ram Janmabhoomi case.
- Updated information on political parties and the Mandal Commission.
Criticisms
- Politicians like Jairam Ramesh condemn the changes as an attack on secularism.
- Former advisors to NCERT threaten legal action over distorted facts.
- Concerns were raised about historical accuracy and ideological bias.
- Potential for influencing educational narratives with a partisan agenda.
NCERT’s Defense
- NCERT 2024 Revisions based on expert recommendations for updated content.
- Emphasis on aligning with current legal perspectives and educational relevance.
- Streamlining information to reduce academic burden, especially post-pandemic.
Historical Context
- This isn’t the first instance of controversy surrounding NCERT 2024 revisions.
- Since 2014, the BJP-led government has faced accusations of promoting a saffronized agenda in education reforms.
- Previous changes like altering terminology for the Gujarat riots raised similar concerns.
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