The latest NCERT Class 12 Political Science textbook has introduced significant revisions in its section on the Ayodhya dispute. These changes, aimed at reflecting recent developments and providing a balanced perspective, have sparked discussions among educators and students.
Key Revisions
The revised textbook now refers to the Babri Masjid as a “three-domed structure” rather than by its historical name. The Ayodhya section has been condensed from four pages to two, omitting several crucial details previously included.
Notable Deletions:
- BJP Rath Yatra: The journey from Somnath to Ayodhya.
- Role of Kar Sevaks: Volunteers involved in the demolition.
- Communal Violence: The aftermath of the demolition on December 6, 1992.
- President’s Rule: Implementation in BJP-ruled states.
- BJP’s Expression of Regret: Over the Ayodhya events.
These changes were partially disclosed by NCERT earlier, but the full extent has now been revealed.
Revised Narrative
The previous version introduced Babri Masjid as a 16th-century mosque built by Mughal emperor Babur’s General Mir Baqi. The new version describes it as “a three-dome structure built at the site of Shri Ram’s birthplace in 1528, with Hindu symbols and relics visible in its interior and exterior.”
Old Description: The old textbook detailed the mobilization on both sides after the mosque’s locks were opened in February 1986, communal tensions, the rath yatra, kar seva, the mosque’s demolition, and subsequent violence. It included the BJP’s “regret over the happenings at Ayodhya” and a discussion on secularism.
New Description: The revised text simplifies the narrative: “In 1986, the situation regarding the three-dome structure took a significant turn when the Faizabad (now Ayodhya) district court ruled to unlock the structure, allowing people to worship there. The dispute had been ongoing for decades, with tensions between the Hindu and Muslim communities over ownership rights. In 1992, following the demolition of the structure, critics argued that it challenged the principles of Indian democracy.”
Supreme Court Verdict
A new subsection discusses the Supreme Court’s decision on the Ayodhya dispute, highlighting the 5–0 verdict on November 9, 2019. This decision allotted the disputed site to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra Trust for constructing a Ram temple and directed the government to provide a site for a mosque to the Sunni Central Waqf Board.
The revised text states: “This issue was resolved following due process of law based on archaeological and historical evidence. The Supreme Court’s decision was celebrated as a classic example of consensus building on a sensitive issue, reflecting India’s democratic ethos.”
Visual and Textual Changes
Deleted Images: Previous editions included newspaper clippings from December 1992, highlighting significant reactions to the demolition. These images have been removed.
Updated Judgement Excerpts: The old textbook featured excerpts from the 1994 Supreme Court judgement convicting Kalyan Singh, the then UP Chief Minister, of contempt of court. This has been replaced with an excerpt from the 2019 Supreme Court verdict, emphasizing the court’s commitment to upholding the Constitution and equality of all religions.
Conclusion
This revision marks the fourth update of NCERT textbooks since 2014, reflecting changes to align with recent political developments and reduce the syllabus burden. The revisions in the Ayodhya dispute section aim to present a more current and balanced view, considering the Supreme Court’s verdict and its reception.
Wishaw Post 