Bengaluru (Agency): The Karnataka Cabinet has given its approval for the revision of Kannada and Social Science textbooks for classes six to ten in the state, eliminating chapters on RSS founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and Hindutva ideologue V.D. Savarkar, among others. The decision also includes the addition of chapters on prominent figures such as Savitribai Phule, Nehru's letters to Indira Gandhi, and poetry on B.R. Ambedkar, while undoing the changes made by the previous BJP government.
The Congress party, in its election manifesto, had pledged to revert the alterations made to school textbooks during the BJP's tenure and had also promised to scrap the National Education Policy (NEP).
Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil stated, "Regarding textbook revision, the cabinet discussed the proposal presented by the department, including the removal and addition of lessons, and has granted its approval." Primary and Secondary Education Minister Kumar Bangarappa highlighted that revising the textbooks was a commitment made by the Congress party in their manifesto, and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has consistently provided guidance in this regard.
The decision to remove chapters on RSS founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar and Hindutva ideologue V.D. Savarkar has stirred controversy, with critics accusing the government of rewriting history to suit its political agenda. However, supporters argue that the revisions aim to present a more inclusive and comprehensive view of Indian history and promote social harmony.
The revised textbooks will now incorporate chapters on notable figures such as Savitribai Phule, a social reformer and women's rights activist, Nehru's letters to Indira Gandhi, offering insights into the early days of Indian independence, and poetry dedicated to B.R. Ambedkar, a champion of social justice and the architect of India's constitution.
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