Former Karnataka Minister Objects to NCERT's Kannada Textbook, Calls It 'Cultural Oppression'

Former School Education Minister of Karnataka, Madhu Bangarappa, has raised strong objections to the title and content of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) Class 6 Kannada textbook, referred to as 'R3'. He took to social media to express his concerns, calling the book an insult to Kannada identity and an act of political and cultural oppression.

Bangarappa stated that the textbook, titled 'Krishna', is disconnected from the linguistic and cultural context of Karnataka. He pointed out that the Karnataka State Educational Research and Training (DSERT) already publishes widely accepted Kannada textbooks such as Savi Kannada, Siri Kannada, and Thili Kannada, which were ignored by the NCERT. He said the NCERT's decision to release a separate textbook for CBSE-affiliated schools in Karnataka undermines the state's educational framework.

Further, Bangarappa objected to specific content in the textbook, particularly a chapter on 'Balanced Diet'. He noted that references to meat, fish, and eggs were deliberately omitted, featuring only vegetarian options. He argued that this omission does not reflect the dietary habits of many Kannadigas and is a misrepresentation of the region's culture.

Bangarappa urged the NCERT to immediately withdraw the textbook and collaborate with DSERT to develop a curriculum that truly reflects the culture, traditions, and literary heritage of Karnataka. He emphasized the need for educational materials that respect regional identities and provide accurate representation to students.