A committee set up by the state government has recommended that chapters in school textbooks about Tipu Sultan be retained, but without glorifying him.
After a controversy was sparked over textbooks in Karnataka glorifying Tipu Sutan, a section of right-wing activists had expressed displeasure. Even BJP MLA, Appachhu Ranjan had asked that the chapter on Tipu in history textbooks in state syllabus be eliminated.
Following this, a committee headed by Rohith Chakratirtha was constituted to investigate content in textbooks pertaining to the 18th century ruler.
The committee has recommended that a “neutral tone” be adopted while teaching students about the ruler while also taking care to ensure only factual details are printed. One such is that of referring to Tipu Sultan as the Tiger of Mysuru. The committee has said that there are no references in historical texts regarding the same, questioning its authenticity.
The committee has also suggested that textbooks highlight stories of other freedom fighters. Among the rules, the committee has told the history of Mysuru Wadiyars, Venkatappa Nayak of Surpur dynasty, Rai Gaidinliu, a Naga spiritual, and political leader who fought against the British among others. Two other dynasties – Ahom and Karkota dynasty’s histories have also been suggested to be included in the textbooks.
Also read: Education minister seeks report on removing Tipu Sultan from history texts