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A controversy has erupted over the changes made regarding the Mughal rulers in the new NCERT social science book of class 8. The debate has intensified among historians and educationists regarding the language and facts used in the book.

The new book of social science for class 8 by NCERT has given rise to a new debate. The book uses some harsh words about the rulers associated with the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal period, due to which differences between historians and education experts are deepening.

In the new book, Babur has been described as a "cruel conqueror", Akbar as a "mixture of tolerance and cruelty" and Aurangzeb as a "ruler who destroyed temples and gurudwaras". This language is considered to be more straightforward and critical compared to earlier books. Many people are expressing concern that such things can lead the thinking of children in a one-sided direction.

A special comment has also been added to the book on page 20, titled - "A Note on History's Darker Period". It says that "no person or community of today should be blamed for the events of the past." Its purpose is to give the message that history should be seen from a balanced perspective, so that the students do not develop feelings of hatred or discrimination towards anyone.

What did NCERT say?

NCERT has clarified its stand on the questions raised about the book. The institution says that this book has been prepared according to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and National Curriculum Framework (NCF-SE) 2023. Its purpose is not just to give information, but to give students the ability to think, understand and analyze.

Class 8 is considered the last stage of middle school. In such a situation, it is important to teach students how society, politics, history and geography are interconnected. In the book, events from the 13th century to the 19th century have been presented in such a way that students can understand the impact of the past era on today's India.

Simple language, deep understanding

NCERT also says that the facts in the book have been explained in simple language and with examples. The objective is that children should not limit themselves to memorizing, but should understand the depth of every subject and develop the habit of raising questions themselves. The things mentioned in the book are based on reliable and authentic sources.