The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has introduced significant revisions to the Class 8 social science textbook, particularly in the chapter ‘India's Long Road to Independence.’ The changes notably alter the portrayal of the Indian National Congress's stance on the Partition of India and remove a reference to Adolf Hitler in a section on Subhas Chandra Bose.
Revised Portrayal of Congress and Partition
In the updated textbook, the description of the Congress party's acceptance of Partition has been modified. Previously, the text stated that the Congress had accepted Partition due to circumstances. The revised version now emphasizes that the Congress accepted Partition as a necessary step for achieving independence, with a focus on the party's commitment to national unity. According to experts, this shift aligns with the current government's historical narrative.
Removal of Hitler Reference
The textbook also removed a reference to Adolf Hitler in the section on Subhas Chandra Bose. The earlier edition mentioned that Bose sought support from Hitler and Nazi Germany during India's freedom struggle. The revised edition omits this detail, instead highlighting Bose's role in forming the Indian National Army and his efforts to seek support from Japan. The change is seen as an attempt to streamline the narrative around Bose's legacy.
Broader Revisions in the Textbook
Other changes include a more detailed account of the contributions of leaders like V.D. Savarkar and a sharper critique of the British colonial policies. The textbook now includes a separate section on ‘The Making of the National Movement,’ which provides a chronological account of key events. The NCERT stated that the revisions were made to ensure accuracy and to present a balanced perspective of history.
Reactions and Implications
The changes have sparked debate among historians and educators. Some argue that the revisions reflect a selective interpretation of history, while others support the move as a correction of past biases. A NCERT spokesperson said, “The revisions are based on feedback from experts and aim to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of India's freedom struggle.” The updated textbook is expected to be used in schools from the upcoming academic session.
