12 Jul. 24: The Faculty of Law at Delhi University (DU) has faced significant backlash over its proposal to introduce Manusmriti, an ancient Sanskrit text, as suggested reading in the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) program. The proposal, which was in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aimed at incorporating Indian perspectives into learning, was met with strong opposition from various quarters.
The suggested readings included “Manusmriti with the Manubhasya of Medhatithi” by G N Jha and “Commentary of Manu Smriti – Smritichandrika” by T Krishnaswami Iyer, intended for the Unit V-Analytical Positivism section of the first semester’s Jurisprudence (Legal Method) paper. However, after a review meeting, DU Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh announced the removal of these readings from the proposal, which is set to be presented to the Academic Council for approval.
The uproar among DU teachers highlighted concerns that the inclusion of Manusmriti, a text criticized for its regressive views on women and marginalized communities, contradicts the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution. The Social Democratic Teachers Front, in its letter to the Vice-Chancellor, described the move as “highly objectionable” and detrimental to the progress of women and marginalized communities.
Critics argue that while the government is actively removing content related to Muslim history, their sacrifices, and achievements from textbooks and academic curricula, it is simultaneously promoting texts like Manusmriti, which even many Hindus oppose. This, they contend, is a clear attempt at polarization, pitting communities against each other under the guise of educational reform.
Professor Anju Vali Tikoo, Dean of the Faculty of Law, defended the inclusion of Manusmriti, citing the NEP’s objective of introducing Indian perspectives and enhancing analytical understanding among students. However, DU Academic Council member Maya John dismissed the modifications as politically motivated and lacking academic merit.
The controversy also drew political reactions, with Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh accusing the government of using “salami tactics” to undermine the Constitution and Dr. Ambedkar’s legacy.
In parallel, the Faculty of Law is working on new courses to replace the existing ones on the Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Indian Evidence Act with courses on the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhitha, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. These courses, drafted last month, were approved by the Standing Committee on Academic Matters on June 24 and will be implemented in the upcoming academic session.
The proposed inclusion of Manusmriti in DU’s LLB syllabus has thus sparked a broader debate on the direction of educational reforms and the potential for polarizing academic content in India’s institutions of higher learning.
