Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has strongly denied allegations that the Preamble of the Indian Constitution has been removed from NCERT textbooks. He stated that these claims are baseless and emphasized that the National Education Policy (NEP) ensures due importance is given to various aspects of the Indian Constitution, including the Preamble, Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights, and the National Anthem.
Key Points
- Baseless Claims: Minister Pradhan refuted the allegations, stating that they have no basis.
- NEP’s Importance: Under the NEP, the NCERT has highlighted various constitutional aspects in textbooks.
- Criticism of Misinformation: Pradhan accused those spreading misinformation of playing with the future of children and labeled their actions as petty politics.
Minister’s Response
In his tweet, Mr. Pradhan criticized the Congress party for their stance on the Indian education system. He accused the party of being inspired by Macaulay’s ideology and being antagonistic towards India’s development and education.
- Statement on X: “The allegations of removing the Preamble of the Constitution from NCERT textbooks have no basis. For the first time under the National Education Policy, NCERT has given due importance and respect to various aspects of the Indian Constitution – Preamble, Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights, National Anthem – in the textbooks… Those who are playing with the future of children and calling the Indian education system rubbish should try to know the truth before spreading lies.”
- Further Criticism: Pradhan claimed that Congress’s argument that only the Preamble reflects constitutional values shows a limited understanding of the Constitution.
Professor Ranjana Arora’s View
Professor Ranjana Arora, Head of the Department of Curriculum Studies and Development at NCERT, also responded via social media. She stated that the belief that “only the Preamble reflects the Constitution and Constitutional Values is flawed and narrow.”
Summary of the Issue
| Claim | Response |
|---|---|
| Preamble removed from textbooks | No basis, as per Dharmendra Pradhan |
| NEP’s role | NEP gives importance to various constitutional aspects |
| Congress criticism | Accused of spreading misinformation and misunderstanding constitutional values |
Minister Pradhan’s firm stance aims to clarify the situation and emphasize the government’s commitment to respecting and teaching constitutional values in the education system.