Fierce Debate Erupts Over Changes in NCERT’s Class 8 Social Science Textbooks

New Delhi: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced notable changes to the Class 8 Social Science textbooks, particularly in sections concerning the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal rulers. The revisions, which include sharper and more critical descriptions of figures such as Babur, Akbar, and Aurangzeb, have ignited a heated debate among educators, historians, and political parties.

What Has Changed?

The updated textbook describes Babur as a “cruel and ruthless” ruler who, according to the book, “massacred entire populations in several cities.” Akbar’s reign is now depicted as a mixture of cruelty and tolerance, while Aurangzeb is specifically named for his destruction of temples and gurdwaras. The textbook also explores the broader religious atmosphere during the Mughal era, providing students with new perspectives that were previously absent.

Political Storm Over Textbook Changes

These developments have triggered a fierce political battle. The opposition accuses the government of distorting the curriculum to fit a political agenda, alleging that the aim is to “hijack history” and “sow sectarian seeds” among the younger generation. “The syllabus is being twisted and manipulated in an attempt to inject narrow political ideology into education,” one opposition leader claimed.

However, government supporters argue that revisions are a routine academic process and stress the importance of factual, comprehensive education. They assert that significant contributors to India’s post-independence history were previously ignored, and that glorifying only one family or group in history is unfair and misleading.

Are the Changes Justified?

Many history teachers support the revisions, suggesting that the previous curriculum provided only partial knowledge. “Students must learn the full scope of history, including information about the Marathas, other prominent clans, and not just the Mughals or British. Children’s education should cover all relevant facts,” said one teacher.

Education and National Identity

The debate over textbooks is not limited to lessons on the Mughals. New curricular changes in Uttarakhand government schools will soon see the Bhagavad Gita and Ramayana taught to over 17,000 students. Proponents argue these texts impart traditional Indian knowledge, human values, and ethical lessons. “The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita are timeless and valuable throughout one’s life,” said a government official, adding that the department has already instructed schools and teachers to include selected verses in the morning classes.

The Broader Context

Some critics, however, warn against a one-sided approach, stressing that good values and lessons from all religions should be included in the curriculum to avoid a perception of bias or politicization.

Despite the uproar from the opposition, supporters of the textbook changes argue that no one can change or erase what has happened in history, and that the new generation of students deserves to know the complete truth about their country’s past and its ancient culture. “Only with this knowledge can India move forward and achieve true progress in the world,” said a teacher supporting the reforms.