Jaipur: Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday criticized the state government for allegedly trying to “erase” the legacy and contributions of tribal communities by removing chapters on their history from school textbooks.
Gehlot condemned the exclusion of a chapter on Mangarh Dham, a site of tribal resistance, from the Class 4 syllabus, calling it unfortunate and “shameful”. “The removal of the chapter on Mangarh Dham, a sacred site of tribal resistance, from the Class 4 textbook is not just an academic omission -- it is a deliberate act of historical erasure,” he said in a statement.
He further alleged that ever since coming to power, the BJP has “consistently attempted to diminish the contributions of India’s tribal communities.” Gehlot also recalled earlier incidents, including the removal of the story of Kalibai, a young tribal girl who sacrificed her life for the cause of education. “These acts are not isolated-- they reflect a larger, deliberate effort to erase the sacrifices, valour, and legacy of tribal communities from public memory,” he added.
Gehlot stressed that the role of tribal communities in India’s freedom struggle and social movements was profound and permanent. “Their sacrifices are part of the nation’s soul. No political party, no government, has the right to tamper with that legacy for political convenience,” he said.
Demanding an apology from the BJP, he urged the state government to immediately reinstate chapters on Mangarh Dham, Kalibai and other tribal icons in school curricula. “The BJP must apologies to the tribal communities for this unacceptable act and take immediate steps to restore the stories of Mangarh Dham, Kalibai, and other tribal icons in the school curriculum,” Gehlot said.