Delhi University Drops Proposal To Include Manusmriti, Baburnama In History Syllabus

Delhi University : Delhi University (DU) has withdrawn the proposal to include texts like Manusmriti and Baburnama in its undergraduate history syllabus following strong opposition from faculty members. Confirming the decision, DU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh said that there are no plans to introduce such material into the university’s curriculum, now or in the future.

“There is no consideration of including subjects like Manusmriti or Baburnama in DU. We reject such ideas entirely,” the Vice Chancellor said. He added that Baburnama, the autobiography of Mughal ruler Babur, holds no relevance in today’s time. “Baburnama is the account of a tyrant. There is no need to teach such content. It does not contribute to the present or future of our country,” Prof. Singh stated.

He argued that Manusmriti promotes caste-based discrimination and oppression, making its inclusion “contrary to the Constitution of Bharat and the progressive values of our society.”

Kumar also criticised Baburnama, the memoir of Mughal emperor Babur, stating that it glorifies an invader responsible for widespread destruction in India. He referred to historical and religious texts highlighting the brutality of Babur’s invasion.

Addressing the university’s academic vision, the Vice Chancellor explained that under the New Education Policy (NEP 2020), DU aims to design courses that reflect Indian knowledge systems and traditions, focusing on the development of the nation.

“We are working towards the goal of Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047. DU is creating study materials that not only preserve our heritage but also help strengthen the economy and benefit society,” he said.

While some faculty members opposed the inclusion, others defended it as an opportunity to study history through primary sources. They argued that such texts should be examined in their historical context, rather than viewed as endorsements of their ideas. This is not the first time Manusmriti has faced resistance at DU — a similar proposal to introduce it in the law syllabus last year was also withdrawn following protests.

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