A question in the MA Semester IV examination for 'Women in Modern Indian Society (1950)' conducted by the History Department of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) on May 16 has sparked widespread debate. The question asked: 'What do you understand by the term Brahmanical Patriarchy? Discuss how Brahmanical patriarchy impeded the progress of women in ancient India.'
Controversy Erupts
As the examination paper went viral on social media, opinions poured in from both inside and outside the university. The 70-mark, three-hour paper was divided into three sections: optional questions, short-answer questions, and long-answer questions. Critics argue that the framing of the question is biased and divisive.
Akhil Bharatiya Manishee Parishad general secretary Diwakar Dwivedi said, 'It is a deliberate effort to hit Brahmins, the flag-bearers of the Sanatan traditions, by those left-wing ideologues... Their supporters are still seated in educational institutions. Same elements are getting the opportunity to ask such questions, which disrupt social equality and divide it based on castes.'
Shri Kashi Vidwat Parishad president Padma Bhushan Acharya Vashisht Tripathi added, 'Our Dharm Shastras do not contain patriarchal or Brahmanical disputes. Women's power has been given a high place in the Shastras and Puranas... When such questions are raised from major educational institutions, divisive situations arise in society and it appears to be an attempt to target a particular class, which is unjust.'
Other Questions Under Scrutiny
Apart from the question on Brahmanical Patriarchy, another question also drew criticism: 'With suitable examples, discuss the development of women's organisations in Colonial India. What type of different educational avenues were opened up for Indian women in the colonial period? How far was this effective in breaking the private-public dichotomy for them?'
Vishwa Hindu Parishad city president Rajesh Mishra questioned where the question maker had studied that patriarchy was instituted by Brahmins.
University's Defense
In a clarification, BHU stated, 'The university administration has taken cognizance of the question asked in the context of women's history in the 4th semester examination of MA (History). It is clarified that this question has been asked within the prescribed syllabus of the 'Women in Modern Indian History' paper.'
The university added, 'To enhance knowledge and analytical ability in any subject, students are expected to be aware of the various aspects and contexts of topics mentioned in the syllabus. Academic debate and diversity of perspectives on any concept included in the syllabus is possible. Therefore, questions asked in semester examinations should be viewed in an academic context.'
When asked about the screening process for exam questions, authorities said some cross-checks are done, but due to confidentiality, many people cannot be involved.
