Delhi University Considers Dropping Courses on Pakistan, China, Islam; Faculty Alleges Political Motivation

Faculty members argue that dropping courses on Pakistan, China, and Islam undermines academic autonomy and rigor. They believe these topics are vital for understanding India’s foreign policy challenges and the global geopolitical order. Critics claim the changes are politically motivated and focus on beliefs rather than scholarly inquiry, potentially harming students’ academic development.

The courses reportedly considered for removal or revision include electives focusing on Pakistan, China, and Islam within the MA Political Science program. There are also revisions proposed for the Geography and Sociology syllabi, though the news summary primarily highlights the political science electives related to these key geopolitical and cultural topics.

Delhi University has seen periodic syllabus reviews as part of its academic processes, but recent changes have drawn particular criticism for being seen as politically motivated. Traditionally, the department has had autonomy to decide its curriculum, and past revisions typically involved faculty consensus rather than top-down directives.

Studying Pakistan and China is considered crucial due to their roles as India's major neighbors and foreign policy challenges. Courses on Islam help understand a significant global and regional religious and political force. These topics foster critical analysis, informed debate, and prepare students for careers in diplomacy, academia, and policy analysis.