'No attempts to saffronise...': NCERT clarifies textbook tweaks on Ayodhya coverage

Reportedly, key alterations include no longer mentioning the Babri Masjid by name, instead referring to it as a "three-domed structure.

The revision of the NCERT Class 12 Political Science textbook has ignited a debate over its handling of the Ayodhya dispute, with significant alterations drawing attention.

According to a report, the key alterations include no longer mentioning the Babri Masjid by name, instead referring to it as a "three-domed structure." Additionally, the section dedicated to Ayodhya has been reduced from four pages to two, omitting several details.

Responding to the criticism and concerns raised regarding these alterations, NCERT Director Dinesh Prasad Saklani, on June 16, clarified the rationale behind the revisions.

Saklani noted that the changes were not aimed at saffronising the curriculum but were based strictly on evidence and factual accuracy.

"No attempts to saffronise curriculum, all changes in textbooks based on evidence and facts. Why should we teach students about riots; purpose not to create violent, depressed citizens", said the NCERT Director.

He defended the decision, stating, "If anything becomes irrelevant, it will have to be changed".

Saklani further elaborated on the purpose of history education in schools, emphasising that it should inform students about factual events rather than inciting controversy or promoting violence.

"Hatred, violence are not subjects of teaching in school; they shouldn't be the focus of textbooks," he remarked.

The NCERT director also highlighted that the revision of textbooks is a global practice undertaken to ensure that educational content remains relevant and reflective of accurate historical understanding.

Regarding the process of revising textbooks, Saklani clarified that the revisions are carried out by subject experts, and he does not personally dictate or interfere in the process. "Revision of textbooks is done by subject experts. I don't dictate or interfere in the process," he affirmed.

Key details removed from the new edition include:

- The BJP's Rath Yatra from Somnath to Ayodhya.
- The role of kar sevaks in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
- The communal violence following the demolition of the Babri Masjid in December 1992.
- The imposition of President's rule in BJP-ruled states.
- The BJP's expression of regret over the Ayodhya events.

(With PTI inputs)