Delhi University professors divided over removal of papers on Islam, Pakistan, China
Delhi University faces backlash after its decision to drop postgraduate papers on Islam, Pakistan, and China. It has sparked intense debate in academic circles after its Standing Committee for Academic Matters decided to remove several proposed elective papers from the postgraduate Political Science syllabus.The removed subjects include Islam and International Relations, Pakistan and the World, China's Role in the Contemporary World, and State and Society in Pakistan.advertisementAnother course titled Religious Nationalism and Political Violence has been held back for review in the upcoming committee meeting scheduled on July 1.MIXED REACTIONS TO THE DECISION
The move has not gone down well with several committee members. Professor Monami Sinha voiced strong opposition, calling the change an act of ideological censorship.She warned that removing such papers undermines critical academic enquiry, especially at a time when understanding regional geopolitics is crucial."We argued that it is imperative to study Pakistan and China in detail. Ignoring these geopolitical realities would be academically short-sighted," Professor Sinha stated.She also raised concerns over the removal of references to caste, communal violence, and same-sex relationships from the revised Sociology and Geography curricula.PROPONENTS CALL FOR AN INDIA-FIRST SYLLABUSOn the other hand, some members supported the decision, asserting that the current syllabus was "agenda-driven" and lacked balance. Committee member Professor Harendra Tiwari questioned the selective inclusion of topics.advertisement'Why only a paper on Islam and International Relations? Why not on Hinduism or Sikhism?' as quoted by PTI.According to him, the committee's goal is to create a curriculum that is "India-centric" and unbiased, serving national academic interests.Tiwari made it clear that the dropped courses will not be reinstated unless they align with an India-first academic perspective.FURTHER DISCUSSION AHEADThe topic remains unsettled, and the upcoming meeting on July 1 is expected to see further deliberation on the revised syllabus.The issue has not only triggered a division within the committee but has also raised broader questions about academic freedom, inclusivity, and political influence in higher education.As this debate unfolds, students and faculty await clarity on what direction Delhi University's curriculum will ultimately take.(With inputs from PTI)- Ends
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