IIT Gandhinagar to Review Michel Danino’s Role After NCERT Textbook Controversy

The Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT Gandhinagar) is set to review the role of historian Michel Danino as a guest professor following directions issued by the Supreme Court of India in connection with the controversy surrounding a withdrawn school textbook.

Officials said a standing committee at the institute will examine Danino’s appointment after the court instructed government bodies and public institutions to disassociate from individuals involved in the preparation of a disputed textbook chapter.

The decision has added a new development to the ongoing debate over school curriculum content and the role of academic experts in textbook preparation.

Controversy Over NCERT History Textbook

The controversy centres on a chapter related to judicial corruption that appeared in a now-withdrawn textbook prepared by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).

Danino had chaired the curricular area group responsible for developing social science textbooks for the national education body.

Following the controversy, the chapter was withdrawn and authorities moved to address concerns raised about its content.

Supreme Court Directive

The Supreme Court of India directed government departments and public institutions to distance themselves from individuals associated with the preparation of the disputed chapter.

The court’s directive also included instructions that all copies of the controversial textbook be confiscated immediately to prevent further circulation.

The order has prompted several institutions to reassess their associations with individuals involved in the textbook’s preparation.

Review by IIT Gandhinagar

After the court’s direction, IIT Gandhinagar confirmed that a standing committee will review Michel Danino’s position as a guest professor.

The committee will examine the circumstances of his association with the institute and determine the next course of action based on the Supreme Court’s directive.

Officials have stated that the review will follow the institution’s internal procedures and legal guidance.

Other Experts Also Under Scrutiny

Two other experts linked to the drafting of the controversial chapter have also faced criticism.

These include Suparna Diwakar and Alok Prasanna Kumar, who were involved in preparing the disputed material.

The debate around the textbook has sparked wider discussions about academic freedom, curriculum development and oversight in educational institutions.

Ongoing Debate on Curriculum Content

The NCERT textbook controversy has triggered national discussions about how school curricula should be designed and monitored.

Educational experts and policymakers have emphasised the importance of maintaining balanced academic content while ensuring that textbooks meet educational standards.

As institutions respond to the Supreme Court’s directive, the issue continues to highlight the complexities involved in shaping school education policies in India.