Controversy Sparks as Delhi University’s Ramanujan College Mandates Bhagavad Gita Course for Staff

In a move that has stirred controversy, Delhi University’s Ramanujan College has made it mandatory for its teaching and non-teaching staff to undergo a certificate-cum-refresher course on Bhagavad Gita. The 20-day course, conducted both online and offline, aims to sensitize participants and aligns with the Indian Knowledge System (IKS). Principal SP Aggarwal conveyed the decision through an email, stating that similar programs will be introduced for other components of the Indian Knowledge System, including the Vedas.

The decision has faced criticism from teachers who express concerns about potential promotion of ‘sectarian beliefs.’ The Democratic Teachers’ Front (DTF) has called for the withdrawal of the mandatory registration, accusing Principal SP Agarwal of overstepping powers by dictating compulsory participation in the Bhagavad Gita course.

The DTF contends that the coercion of staff to engage beyond official duties and the added responsibility of conducting ongoing semester examinations is unacceptable. Amidst this, the move raises questions about the intersection between traditional and modern education, echoing broader discussions about incorporating Indian Knowledge Systems into academic curricula.

The Ministry of Education has been actively working to bridge the gap between modern and traditional education, encouraging initiatives that incorporate Indian Knowledge Systems into the curriculum. The controversy at Ramanujan College underscores the challenges and debates surrounding the integration of traditional knowledge into contemporary educational frameworks.