Delhi University May Drop Key Geopolitical Topics from MA Political Science Syllabus

Delhi University is likely to remove several postgraduate political science courses referencing Pakistan, China, Islam, and political violence, according to recent developments following a departmental review. Courses such as 'Pakistan and the World', 'China's Role in the Contemporary World', 'Islam and International Relations', 'Pakistan: State and Society', and 'Religious Nationalism and Political Violence' may either be scrapped or replaced with alternative subjects.

The decision comes in the wake of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, after which university authorities reportedly urged departments to eliminate any perceived glorification of Pakistan from academic curricula. DU Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh confirmed to ANI that instructions were issued to revise syllabi with this objective in mind.

Faculty Express Concerns Over Academic Freedom

This potential revision has sparked strong criticism from faculty members, who argue that such changes compromise both academic integrity and geopolitical scholarship. Dr. Monami Sinha, a member of the university’s Standing Committee on Academic Matters, emphasized that understanding Pakistan is essential for students, given its ongoing relevance in India’s foreign policy landscape. She also underscored China's growing importance in the Global South, advocating for its continued academic study.

Abha Dev, Secretary of the Democratic Teachers' Front (DTF), condemned the changes, claiming they undermine academic freedom. "This is a case of academic autonomy being eroded. Course revisions based on ideological beliefs rather than pedagogical merit are intellectually regressive," she stated. Dev warned that such politically driven changes could damage DU’s academic reputation and students’ scholarship potential.

Calls for Intellectual Engagement, Not Avoidance

Mithuraaj Dhusiya, an elected member of the Academic Council, also voiced his objection. He argued that removing subjects deemed uncomfortable prevents critical engagement, which is vital in a democracy. "In the current geopolitical context, engaging with opposing viewpoints is crucial for preparing students intellectually. Avoidance is not the answer," Dhusiya said in a formal statement.

If the current courses are indeed removed, the proposed replacements will be evaluated by the department’s course committee. Any new curriculum will be forwarded to the university’s syllabus panel before being presented to the Academic Council for final approval.