New Delhi: A major controversy has erupted in the Dharwad district of Karnataka regarding a textbook used in the first-semester undergraduate curriculum at Karnatak University. The Karnataka Law Students Association has lodged a formal complaint against the book titled ‘Belagu 1’, specifically targeting a chapter called “Rastriyathe”. The association alleges that the content undermines Indian unity and promotes divisive ideologies.
The complaint asserts that the chapter criticizes prominent entities such as the Sangh Parivar and the construction of the Ram Mandir, while also challenging revered figures like Bharat Mata and Bhuvaneshwari Devi. Critics argue that the text fosters communal animosity by portraying “Bharat Mata” as a deity exclusive to Hindus and it allegedly employs derogatory language to describe the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
In response to these allegations, senior advocate and social activist Arun Joshi has contacted both the University Vice-Chancellor Dr KB Gudasi and Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot. In his communication with the university authorities and governor, Joshi demanded the immediate withdrawal of the controversial syllabus, warning of potential legal repercussions if appropriate measures are not implemented.
Joshi’s letter highlights that the chapter, authored by Ramalingappa T Begur, contains “anti-national” elements. The complaint, spearheaded by state president Manjunath Hongalad, claims that ‘Belagu’ promotes “unconstitutional, anti-India, anti-national, anti-Hindu” narratives that align with “Communist Congress agendas”.
Particularly contentious is the section titled “Bharatambeya Kalpane” (Concept of Bharat Mata), which is accused of presenting Bharat Mata as a symbol exclusive to Hindus while marginalizing other communities, including Muslims, Sikhs, and Jains. The complaint argues that this portrayal suggests that only one community can claim allegiance to Bharat Mata, rendering others’ expressions of nationalism as inadequate.
“The chapter also tries to push the idea of Bharat Mata being a representation of only one community ignoring the others. Therefore it assumes that others shouting the slogan of Bharat Mata Ki Jai is defeatist,” the complaint stated.
Another disputed part is “Imaginary Faces of Nationalism – Myths of Uniformity”. Joshi contends that this section promotes a singular national culture, which he believes could lead to a homogenised national identity that sidelines diverse communities. In the section titled “Sense of Alienation”, he argued that the text implies current nationalism is rooted in Hinduism, neglecting the contributions and identities of minority groups.
Furthermore, the chapter “Nationalism – Jingoism” reportedly critiques India’s achievements, such as its status as a nuclear power and its space missions, labelling these as manifestations of jingoism and aggressive nationalism. Joshi argues that such narratives detract from pressing social issues like poverty and unemployment.
Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy also criticised the syllabus for allegedly promoting anti-Hindu narratives. “Congress says they follow Gandhi principles and they declared themselves a Hindu, but look at the double standards. They propagate textbooks which are against Hindu sentiments and Hindu dignity and try to misguide the population. The textbook has to be withdrawn from circulation,” he said.
