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Key Points

Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has strongly criticized the current state government for removing tribal historical narratives from school textbooks. He specifically highlighted the deletion of the Mangarh Dham chapter and the story of Kalibai, calling it a deliberate attempt to erase tribal contributions. Gehlot argued that these actions reflect a broader pattern of disregarding tribal identity and historical sacrifices. He demanded an immediate apology and reinstatement of the removed chapters to preserve the legacy of tribal communities.

Key Points: Gehlot Slams BJP for Erasing Tribal History in Rajasthan Texts

  • Gehlot criticizes BJP's removal of Mangarh Dham chapter from Class 4 textbooks
  • Argues against systematic erasure of tribal community contributions
  • Demands immediate reinstatement of tribal historical narratives
  • Highlights ongoing attempts to diminish tribal identity and history
2 min read

Ashok Gehlot criticises Raj govt on 'removal' of tribal history from school textbook

Ashok Gehlot condemns Rajasthan govt for removing Mangarh Dham and tribal hero stories from school textbooks

"Their sacrifices are part of the nation's soul. No political party, no government, has the right to tamper with that legacy. - Ashok Gehlot"

Jaipur, Sep 18

Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has condemned the Rajasthan government for its continued attempts to "erase" the rich legacy and contributions of tribal communities from the academic syllabus.

Speaking on the removal of the 'Mangarh Dham' chapter from the syllabus, he said that it was unfortunate and "shameful" that the BJP has once again shown its disregard for tribal identity and history.

"The removal of the chapter on Mangarh Dham, a sacred site of tribal resistance, from the Class 4 textbook is not just an academic omission -- it is a deliberate act of historical erasure," said Gehlot in a statement issued on Thursday.

"Ever since coming to power, the BJP has consistently attempted to diminish the contributions of India's tribal communities. Its disregard for tribal identity is once again visible in the removal of the history of Mangarh Dham from the fourth-grade syllabus," said Gehlot on his X Handle.

He also pointed out that this is not the first such incident. "Earlier, the BJP removed the story of Kalibai, a young tribal girl who sacrificed her life for the cause of education. Previously, the story of Kalibai, a brave young woman who championed education and awakened awareness among marginalised communities, was also erased from textbooks. These acts are not isolated-- they reflect a larger, deliberate effort to erase the sacrifices, valour, and legacy of tribal communities from public memory. But let it be clear: the sacrifices of our tribal heroes are not so fragile that they can be wiped out with a stroke of a pen."

Gehlot emphasised that the contributions of tribal communities to India's freedom struggle and social progress are profound and indelible.

"Their sacrifices are part of the nation's soul. No political party, no government, has the right to tamper with that legacy for political convenience."

He demanded an apology from the BJP to the tribal communities and called for the immediate reinstatement of the chapters on Mangarh Dham, Kalibai, and other tribal icons in school textbooks.

"The BJP must apologise to the tribal communities for this unacceptable act and take immediate steps to restore the stories of Mangarh Dham, Kalibai, and other tribal icons in the school curriculum," Gehlot concluded.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
As a teacher from Rajasthan, I'm deeply disappointed. Tribal communities have contributed immensely to our freedom struggle. Removing their stories from textbooks does a great disservice to our students' education. We need inclusive history, not selective narratives.
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Michael C
While I understand the concern about preserving tribal history, perhaps the government has valid educational reasons for curriculum changes? Maybe they're replacing it with other important content? We should hear their side too before jumping to conclusions.
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Anjali F
My grandmother used to tell us stories about tribal heroes from Rajasthan. It's heartbreaking to think these stories won't be in textbooks. History should be complete, not edited for political purposes. Jai Adivasi! 🙏
S
Siddharth J
Why are we always politicizing education? Whether it's Congress or BJP, both parties play with our education system. We need an independent education board that keeps politics out of what our children learn.
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Nisha Z
As a parent, I want my child to learn about ALL communities that built our nation. Tribal heroes like those from Mangarh Dham fought bravely for our freedom. Their stories inspire courage and patriotism. Please restore these chapters! 🇮🇳

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