DU faces backlash over proposed removal of PG papers on Islam, Pakistan, and China

Delhi University is under fire from faculty members and academic circles following the decision to drop key elective papers from the proposed postgraduate political science syllabus.

The Standing Committee for Academic Matters recently recommended the removal of four subjects: Islam and International Relations, Pakistan and the World, China's Role in the Contemporary World, and State and Society in Pakistan.

Another paper, Religious Nationalism and Political Violence, has been held back for review and will be discussed in the upcoming committee meeting scheduled for July 1.

These elective papers, developed as part of the draft postgraduate curriculum under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, had not yet been introduced to students.

According to a committee member, the courses were ordered to be completely dropped, and the department was instructed to reform the syllabus.

The decision has drawn strong opposition from several faculty members. Professor Monami Sinha criticized the move, describing it as ideological censorship.

She emphasized the academic importance of studying neighboring countries and regional dynamics.

"We argued that it is imperative to study Pakistan and China in detail. Ignoring these geopolitical realities would be academically short-sighted," said Professor Sinha.

She also expressed concern about the exclusion of themes such as caste, communal violence, and same-sex relationships in the revised sociology and geography syllabi.

On the other side, some committee members have backed the removal, arguing that the earlier version of the syllabus lacked balance and was ideologically skewed.

Professor Harendra Tiwari questioned the selective approach to certain religious and geopolitical subjects.

"Why only a paper on Islam and international relations? Why not on Hinduism or Sikhism? We want a syllabus that benefits students and our nation," he said.

Tiwari added that the dropped courses would not be reinstated unless the syllabus aligns with an "India-first" academic perspective.

While the Standing Committee has made its recommendations, it does not hold the final authority over curriculum changes.

The syllabus will now return to the concerned departments for revision. Once revised, it will be presented to the Academic Council, the university’s highest academic body, followed by review and approval from the Executive Council.

The Academic Council meeting is scheduled for July 5.

The issue has triggered wider concerns over academic freedom, curriculum diversity, and the growing role of ideology in shaping higher education content.

As the debate continues, students and faculty await further clarity on the direction of the university's curriculum.