Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Thursday defended the National Council of Educational Research and Training's (NCERT) decision to introduce a chapter on the Emergency in Social Science textbooks. Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a function in Chandigarh marking the anniversary of the Emergency's imposition, Pradhan stated that NCERT had taken the right step. He emphasized that future generations should know, read, and understand the dark deeds of the Emergency, calling the move essential to prevent such a situation from recurring.
NCERT Introduces Emergency Chapter for First Time
NCERT has included the topic of the Emergency in textbooks for the first time. The chapter aims to educate students about the 21-month period from 1975 to 1977 when then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency, suspending civil liberties and leading to widespread arrests. Pradhan's remarks come amid ongoing debates about curriculum changes and historical narratives in Indian education.
NEET Re-Examination Conducted Successfully
On the NEET re-examination, Pradhan reported that the exam held on June 21 was conducted successfully. He noted that attempts to instill fear among students had failed, with over 20 lakh candidates appearing for the test. Those seeking to create an atmosphere of anarchy were left disappointed, he added. The minister's comments address concerns over paper leaks and exam integrity that have sparked protests in recent months.
Punjab CM Video Controversy
Regarding the video controversy involving Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, Pradhan called for Mann's resignation on moral grounds. He described the matter as deeply religious and beyond politics, urging accountability. The controversy has drawn sharp reactions from political parties, with the BJP demanding action.
Protests by Youth Congress and NSUI
Earlier, workers from the Youth Congress and the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) staged protests outside the event, demanding Pradhan's resignation over paper leak incidents. Police intervened, installing barricades on roads in Sector 18, Chandigarh, to prevent protesters from advancing. The demonstrators raised slogans against the government's handling of exam irregularities.
