Delhi University Removes Chapter on Muhammad Iqbal from Political Science Curriculum

New Delhi: Delhi University Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh has expressed his opposition to including a chapter on Pakistan’s national poet, Muhammad Iqbal, in the political science curriculum. Singh stated that Iqbal supported the Muslim League and the idea of Pakistan’s creation, which he believed contributed to the division of India.

Notably, Iqbal had written the famous song “Saare Jahan Se Achha.” He is often credited with giving birth to the idea of Pakistan.

The academic council unanimously approved the removal of the chapter, which will now be presented to the executive council for a final decision. Singh emphasized the importance of studying national heroes rather than individuals who advocated for the partition of India.

During the lengthy meeting, the academic council also approved various initiatives, including the new B. Tech programs, the establishment of the Centre for Independence and Partition Studies, and the Tribal Studies Centre.

The Centre for Independence and Partition Studies aims to explore lesser-known heroes and events of the freedom movement, focusing on the tragedies of the Partition of India.

The Tribal Studies Centre will conduct multidisciplinary research on tribes in India, examining their social, cultural, linguistic, religious, economic, and environmental aspects, as well as their contributions to India’s freedom struggle and folk traditions.

Additionally, the council approved the Integrated Teacher Education Programme (ITEP) course as a four-year pilot project, which will not affect existing teacher education programs. However, some dissenting members raised concerns about the lack of consultation with teachers regarding ITEP and other issues related to displaced temporary and ad hoc teachers. They also protested against a notification requiring colleges to remain open for extended hours without consulting the academic and executive councils.