From Mayawati to Teachers Union, uproar over proposal of introducing Manusmriti in Delhi University LLB courses

The University of Delhi is again in the news, this time not for some long protest or professors marching for permanent posts but for the uproar caused by the proposal to introduce the ancient text, Mansusmriti in the LLB courses. Manusmriti with the Manubhasya of Medhatithi by G N Jha and Commentary of Manu Smriti- Smritichandrika by T Krishnaswami Iyer were proposed as suggested readings under Unit V-Analytical Positivism of the undergraduate course paper in Bachelor of Laws (LLB) in Semester 1.

Regarding the proposal, Professor Anju Vali Tikoo, Dean of, the Faculty of Law, said, “The Manusmriti has been introduced in line with the NEP (National Education Policy) 2020 to introduce Indian perspectives into learning. The unit under which it has been introduced in itself is an analytical unit. Hence, to bring in more perspective for the student to compare and understand analytical positivism, this step has been taken.” As the news came out, the proposal by the Faculty of Law came under severe criticism.

 Protesting against the move, the Social Democratic Teachers Front, wrote to the VC of Delhi University, stating, “It has come to our knowledge that Manusmriti has been recommended to students as ‘suggested readings’ which is highly objectionable as this text is adverse to the progress and education of women and marginalized communities… Introduction of any section or part of Manusmriti is against the basic structure of our Constitution and principles of Indian Constitution.”

Looking at the uproar, the varsity for now decided to take a back step and reversed its decision to introduce Manusmriti in the Law course. Talking to the media, VC Yogesh Singh said, “The varsity held a review meeting today around 2 pm and rejected the inclusion of the suggested readings on Manusmriti in the Jurisprudence (Legal Method) paper, by the Faculty of Law, before it will be tabled in the AC meeting tomorrow.” 

Talking about the proposal, one of the faculty members at CLC, said, “There is no logic at all in introducing ancient texts like Manusmriti in the syllabus. It will lead to the division of society based on caste, class, etc - there is no rationality in creating discrimination in society. The young generations who are not aware of these texts will be prompted towards being a part of that divisive society that takes it backward. In ancient times, women’s rights were restricted and the man was the Head, the Karta of the family. When we are heading towards better education in a globalized world and competing with other progressive countries on technological grounds, implementing texts which are not progressive is not logical."

While reactions came from other political parties too, but reacting strongly to the rejection of the proposal BSP supremo Mayawati, wrote on his X handle and said, “Strong opposition to the proposal to teach Manusmriti in the Law Department of Delhi University, which goes against the honor and dignity of the Indian Constitution and its egalitarian and welfare objectives, is natural and the decision to cancel this proposal is a welcome step.” Referring to Dr. Ambedkar she said, “His Holiness Baba Saheb Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar composed the universally accepted Indian Constitution, especially keeping the self-respect of the neglected people and women as well as humanism and secularism at the core, which does not match with Manusmriti at all. Therefore, any such attempt is not appropriate at all.”