NCERT makes changes in textbook for 4th time, Babri Masjid renamed in new edition

In a significant revision, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has renamed Babri Masjid as a 'three-domed structure' in its latest edition of the Social Science textbook for class 12. The chapter dedicated to Ayodhya has been condensed from four pages to just two, focusing on key events such as BJP's Rath Yatra, the role of Kar Sevaks, violence post the Babri Masjid demolition, imposition of President's rule, and BJP's expressions of regret over the Ayodhya violence.

What was in previous textbook? 

According to The Indian Express report, the previous textbook detailed that Mir Baqi, commander of Mughal emperor Babar, constructed Babri Masjid in the 16th century. However, the updated version now describes a three-domed structure erected in 1528 at the birthplace of Lord Ram, adorned with Hindu symbols and sculptures on its inner and outer walls.

What's in new edition of NCERT? 

The new edition recounts that in 1986, Faizabad district court ordered opening the three-domed structure for worship, acknowledging it as Ram's birthplace. Subsequent construction of the Ram temple was halted, prompting Hindu sentiments of religious infringement while affirming Muslim control over the structure. The demolition of the structure in 1992 sparked debates challenging democratic principles.

Fourth revision of NCERT's textbook 

The Supreme Court's pivotal verdict on November 9, 2019, declaring the land belonged to the temple, is also incorporated. Notably, newspaper cuttings featuring the removal order of the Kalyan Singh government post-Babri demolition have been omitted from the updated edition. This marks the fourth revision of NCERT's textbook since 2014, reflecting changes based on evolving political developments, as stated by NCERT in April.