Rajya Sabha debate ignites over NCERT syllabus: Mallikarjun Kharge flags preamble removal reports; JP Nadda says act responsibly

The controversy over the alleged removal of chapters dealing with the Preamble of the Constitution in NCERT books figured in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday with Leader of the Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge flagging the issue. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, however, categorically stated that these reports were false. Pradhan said: "The Constitution's Preamble, Fundamental Duties, Fundamental Rights and National Anthemc continue to be part of NCERT books and all claims to the contrary were misplaced.

Kharge maintained that he has been informed of newspaper reports stating that the Preamble of the Constitution may be removed from the syllabus.

"I demand from the government that it should table documents on the changes made in the NCERT syllabus," Kharge said, adding that while on the one hand Modi bows to the Constitution, on the other hand he is trying to alter it.


Leader of the House and BJP chief JP Nadda appealed to the Congress to act responsibly on the issue and not make off-the-cuff remarks on serious issues. "Congress is a responsible party and whatever it says must have been said with some seriousness. But today, there is a big question mark on their understanding and intent. There has to be a source (basis) for making such charges. It cannot be done on the basis of newspaper cuttings," Nadda said.