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Title: * Need to withdraw the controversial portions from the B.A. (Hons.) course taught in Delhi University.
19.02 hrs.
(Mr. Deputy-Speaker in the Chair)
SHRI B. MAHTAB : Thank you, Mr. Deputy-Speaker, Sir, for allowing me to raise an important matter of urgent public importance.
I would like to ask the Government why the Government allowed controversial matters to be included in the textbooks. Why do the universities and institutions hurt the feelings of large sections of the society in the name of academic freedom? Who has given them the license to make fun of Hindu Gods and Goddesses?
At times, martyrs are also portrayed as extremists; social and cultural groups are termed as terrorists; and now, in Delhi University, the History Faculty has a reference material in B.A. programme of History which has objectionable materials. How derogatory words are being printed in History books? Can any such words be used against any foreign or sematic religion? How offensive portrayal of mythical characters of Ramayana is being taught in Delhi University? This has given rise to violence in the campus; unsavoury incidents have taken place; and students have protested.
Earlier, I am told that despite their protests, the History Department declined to withdraw that book. I would like to know who has authored that book, who has compiled that book. Is it true that the compiler is related to a VVIP and that is why, the Delhi University is reluctant to withdraw that derogatory chapter, if not that book?
I would like to urge upon the Government to immediately withdraw the contentious essay that is written by Shri A.K. Ramanujam and stringent action be taken against the compiler who has played with the sentiment, belief and faith of a large section of this country. [MSOffice69]
SHRI KHARABELA SWAIN : Sir, I would like to associate with him.
उपाध्यक्ष महोदय : आप इनका नाम मेहताब जी के साथ एसोसिएट कर दीजिएगा।
DR. K.S. MANOJ (ALLEPPEY): May I speak from here, Sir?
MR. DEPUTY-SPEAKER: Yes, you may.