DU Removes Iqbal from Syllabus: A Controversial Decision
In a significant meeting, DU removes Iqbal , a prominent Urdu poet and philosopher, from its Political Science syllabus in a significant move. The decision, made during the 1014th meeting of DU’s Academic Council on 26 May 2023, has sparked widespread debate among educators and intellectuals.
The course, titled ‘Indian Political Thought-II,’ had long included Iqbal, who is famously known for penning “Saare Jahan Se Achha” and other influential works. However, the unanimous decision by the Academic Council, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh, has removed Iqbal from the curriculum. The council’s resolution is rooted in the belief that Iqbal’s ideas contributed to the division of India and the creation of Pakistan, thereby making him unfit for inclusion in the syllabus.
Historical Context and the Controversy
The decision of DU Removes Iqbal from the syllabus is not a novel development. N. Sukumar, a political science professor at DU, revealed that there had been an attempt nearly 15 years ago to remove Iqbal from the academic curriculum. However, the absence of a majority within the Academic Council at that time led to the failure of that attempt. This time, however, the proposal of DU Removes Iqbal was passed without any opposition in a meeting that extended from 10:30 PM to 1:30 AM.
A statement from the Vice Chancellor’s office stated, “Allama Iqbal was dropped from the Political Science syllabus… Those who laid the foundation to break India should not be in the syllabus.” This reflects a growing sentiment that Iqbal’s ideas, particularly his advocacy for the two-nation theory and his support for the Muslim League, played a role in the partition of India. Iqbal’s thoughts were seen as instrumental in the eventual creation of Pakistan, earning him the title of the ‘philosophical father of Pakistan’ in some circles.
Iqbal’s Legacy in Indian Political Thought
Muhammad Iqbal’s influence on Indian political thought cannot be overlooked. His writings, particularly his works on Islamic philosophy and nationalism, have been integral to the study of Indian political history. Iqbal’s Reconstruction of Religious Thought in Islam, a collection of his lectures, was part of the syllabus, providing students with insights into Islamic philosophy and its impact on Indian society.
Iqbal’s contribution to Indian nationalism, despite his later advocacy for a separate Muslim state, is also significant. He is celebrated for writing the patriotic song “Saare Jahan Se Achha,” which continues to resonate with Indians. His ideas on nationalism, though complex and sometimes contradictory, were influential in shaping the discourse on nationhood during the early 20th century.
Opposition from Academics
The removal of Iqbal from the syllabus has been met with resistance from various quarters within the academic community. Vikas Gupta, a member of the Academic Council and a professor at DU, argued that Iqbal’s contributions to Indian nationalism should not be ignored. He emphasized the importance of engaging with diverse perspectives on nationalism, particularly in an academic setting where critical thinking is encouraged.
Professor Maya John, another member of the Academic Council and a history professor, voiced her concerns about the removal. She pointed out that the council’s decision was influenced by members with right-wing ideologies, who argued for the removal on the grounds that Iqbal’s ideas promoted a separate Muslim nation. John argued that removing Iqbal from the syllabus deprives students of the opportunity to engage with different trajectories of thought, which is essential for a well-rounded education.
John and others have suggested that if DU Removes Iqbal, his place should be taken by another Muslim thinker from the early 20th century who contributed to Indian political thought. They proposed the inclusion of thinkers like Maulana Hussain Ahmad Madani, who advocated for composite nationalism and secularism, as a replacement.
A Broader Trend in Syllabus Changes
The decision of DU Removes Iqbal is part of a broader trend of syllabus revisions at DU. Alongside the removal of Iqbal, the university also decided to scrap a chapter on ‘Inequality and Difference’ from the History department’s offerings. Additionally, a new course on Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, an Indian independence activist and a proponent of Hindutva, is being introduced. The council also decided to retain the philosophy course on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, though with some changes, after the Standing Committee had initially suggested its removal.
The change DU Removes Iqbal reflect a shifting approach to the teaching of Indian political thought and history at DU, one that is increasingly aligned with the current ideological climate. Some have seen the decision of DU Removes Iqbal as an attempt to align academic content with a particular nationalist narrative, one that excludes voices that are seen as contributing to divisive ideologies.
Conclusion: A Need for Diverse Perspectives
The decision of DU Removes Iqbal from the syllabus has ignited a debate about the role of education in presenting diverse perspectives. While Iqbal’s advocacy for the two-nation theory and his support for the creation of Pakistan are undeniable, his contributions to Indian political thought and his influence on the nationalist movement are equally significant. DU Removes Iqbal from the syllabus raises important questions about how history should be taught and the importance of engaging with multiple viewpoints, especially in an academic setting.
As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether DU will reconsider its decision or whether this marks a definitive shift in how Indian political thought is taught in one of the country’s premier universities.