The controversy surrounding the proposed inclusion of Manusmriti in Delhi University's Faculty of Law syllabus for jurisprudence has sparked significant debate and subsequent action from the university and government officials.
Initially, the proposal to include Manusmriti, an ancient Hindu text, drew widespread criticism from various quarters, alleging that it promotes casteism and is regressive in nature. Dr. SK Sagar, Chairperson of the Social Democratic Teacher’s Front, strongly opposed the move, arguing that teaching Manusmriti in a legal context is exclusionary and lacks scientific temperament. He pointed out that Manusmriti upholds the caste system, placing Brahmins at the top and Shudras at the bottom, which contradicts modern legal principles of equality and justice.
On the other hand, Anju Wali Tikoo, Dean of the Faculty of Law, defended the initial decision, asserting that studying Manusmriti was essential to understand ancient Indian legal thought and was not intended to endorse discrimination. She clarified that the topic was framed under "analytical positivism" and was proposed based on recommendations from a university committee.
However, following widespread uproar and intervention from Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Delhi University swiftly reversed its decision. Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh emphasized that the proposal was rejected before reaching the Academic Council, citing concerns about its potential to hurt sentiments and the university's commitment to inclusive education. Pradhan echoed similar sentiments, stating that the university acted in accordance with constitutional values by rejecting the proposal.
Critics, including Professor Apoorvanand from Delhi University, expressed skepticism over the motives behind introducing Manusmriti into the curriculum. He questioned whether it was part of a broader agenda to promote a particular ideological viewpoint and criticized external interference in academic matters.
Author Nilanjan Mukhopadhyay speculated that the rejection of Manusmriti from the syllabus was influenced by the current coalition government's need for inclusive governance, considering the diverse electorate and political dynamics. He suggested that such decisions reflect a balancing act to accommodate various social and political sensitivities.
In conclusion, while the debate over Manusmriti in educational curricula underscores broader societal and political tensions, Delhi University's decision to withdraw the proposal highlights the complexities involved in integrating ancient texts into contemporary academic frameworks.
