Allegations of Curriculum Alteration
In a contentious debate in the Rajya Sabha, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge has raised concerns about the alleged removal of the Preamble to the Constitution from certain NCERT textbooks. Kharge contends that this move represents an attempt by the government to impose a communal ideology on India’s educational curriculum. The accusation has sparked a heated response from both the government and opposition parties.
Kharge argued that the Preamble, once a staple in NCERT textbooks, is crucial for imparting foundational democratic values to future generations. He emphasized the significance of educating students about the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity, as articulated during the Constituent Assembly debates in 1948. By referencing these principles, Kharge underscored the importance of preserving historical and constitutional teachings in educational materials.
Government’s Rebuttal and Educational Reforms
The Indian government has vehemently denied Kharge’s allegations, asserting that the Preamble remains an integral part of NCERT textbooks. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan addressed the issue in the Rajya Sabha, affirming that the Preamble is included in the Class 6 textbooks and that the curriculum also covers fundamental duties, rights, and core constitutional values.
Pradhan’s response was aimed at countering the claims made by Kharge and reassuring the public about the government’s commitment to upholding constitutional values in education. The minister highlighted that the educational reforms under the current administration continue to emphasize the core values enshrined in the Constitution, countering accusations of ideological tampering.
Political Exchanges and Public Reactions
The controversy has fueled broader political exchanges, with Kharge accusing the Modi government of undermining the Constitution by allegedly altering educational content. His statement on social media criticized the government’s actions and vowed that the Congress party would resist any attempts to alter foundational constitutional principles through educational reforms.
In his address, Kharge also drew attention to other political issues, including the alleged shifting of Gandhi and Ambedkar statues within the Parliament complex, which further polarized the debate. His remarks provoked objections from the ruling benches, and Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar noted Kharge’s deviation from the main subject.
In response, BJP President J.P. Nadda defended the government’s stance, asserting that the Preamble’s inclusion in textbooks remains intact and that there is no agenda to distort constitutional teachings. Nadda also highlighted past Congress government actions, such as the imposition of Emergency in 1975, to counter accusations against the current administration.
Summary
The debate over the alleged removal of the Preamble from NCERT textbooks has highlighted tensions between the Indian government and opposition parties. While Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge claims that the omission reflects an ideological shift, the government maintains that the Preamble and other constitutional elements remain part of the curriculum. The controversy has sparked political exchanges and public debates about the role of educational content in reflecting constitutional values.
Key Learning Points
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Allegation | Mallikarjun Kharge claims the Preamble was removed from NCERT textbooks to impose communal ideology. |
| Government Response | Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan denies the allegations, stating that the Preamble and core values are preserved in textbooks. |
| Political Implications | The controversy has led to broader political debates, including criticism of past government actions and defense of current educational policies. |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
