NCERT's Revised History Textbook Sparks Political Debate Over Mughal Era Depictions

In the eighth-grade social science textbook, the presentation of information about the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal era in a new format has sparked disagreements in political circles. The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has made changes in the history chapters emphasizing the lack of religious tolerance, atrocities, and autocratic governance. Reacting to these changes, the BJP welcomed this step, calling it an “objective depiction of history.” BJP leader Praveen Khandelwal said, “The Mughals not only ruled the country but also committed various atrocities on the people. This reality had been hidden until now, so it is necessary for the next generation to know the truth.”

BJP's Arvind Sharma stated, “Any change in NCERT books is first reviewed by the committee and only then is it officially implemented.” However, Congress has expressed concern about these changes. Congress leader Tanuj Punia said, “The content in educational books should be clear and objective, unaffected by political motives. It is essential to have a balanced presentation so that students can understand history and form their own thoughts.”

In the new chapters, Babur is portrayed as a “ruthless conqueror,” and Akbar's reign is noted for its “blend of cruelty and tolerance.” The destruction of temples and gurdwaras during Aurangzeb's era is also mentioned. To prevent these new changes from affecting today's society, it is clearly stated in a section called ‘Dark Periods in History’ that “no one should be blamed in the present for events of the past.” The updated book “Exploring Society: India and Beyond” has been included in the students' curriculum from this year. Notably, information about the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal period, which was previously in the seventh grade, is now included in the eighth grade.