Protests Erupt at Jammu University Over Inclusion of Jinnah in Syllabus
A significant protest erupted at Jammu University as members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) opposed the inclusion of a chapter on Muhammad Ali Jinnah in the Political Science syllabus. The protesters demanded the immediate removal of the chapter, arguing that teaching figures associated with the partition of India is against national sentiments. The university defended its decision, stating that the syllabus is academically sound and complies with UGC guidelines, including a range of significant thinkers. The debate highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding historical narratives in education.
Mar 22, 2026, 14:35 IST
Protests by ABVP at Jammu University
On Friday, members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) staged a significant protest at Jammu University. The primary issue sparking the controversy is the inclusion of a chapter on Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, in the postgraduate syllabus for Political Science.
Demands for Immediate Removal of Jinnah's Chapter
Protesters gathered on campus, chanting slogans against the administration and demanding the immediate removal of this chapter from the Modern Indian Political Thought module. They tore down posters of Jinnah, warning that if the syllabus was not amended, they would escalate their movement throughout Jammu and Kashmir.
Concerns Over Teaching Figures Associated with Partition
Why Teach Those Responsible for the Partition of the Country?
According to ABVP's state secretary, Sanak Shrivastava, figures like Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and Muhammad Ali Jinnah promoted the 'Two-Nation Theory' and played a significant role in the division of the country.
The organization argues that teaching about such individuals as minority representatives goes against national sentiments and is unacceptable for students. They contend that if minorities are to be studied, it should be figures who genuinely contributed to the unity of the nation and the welfare of society.
University's Defense of the Syllabus
University Defends Its Academic Decision
In contrast, Baljeet Singh Mann, head of the Political Science department, defended the syllabus, stating that it is entirely an academic decision. He clarified that the syllabus includes not only Jinnah and Iqbal but also major thinkers like Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, Savarkar, Golwalkar, Nehru, and Sardar Patel. He emphasized that removing these topics would disadvantage students preparing for national competitive exams like the NET, where questions related to these figures are often asked.
Compliance with UGC Guidelines
Citing UGC Regulations
The department stressed that the syllabus was approved by a committee and aligns with the guidelines set by the University Grants Commission (UGC). According to Mann, similar content is taught in several major universities in Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Kolkata. He stated that the university's goal is not to promote a specific ideology but to present students with diverse perspectives so they can discern right from wrong. Understanding the changes in the lives of these thinkers is essential for historical clarity.