Assembly discusses textbook issue

Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 24 (UNI) The Marxist-led Left Democratic Front(LDF) Government in Kerala today conceded the Opposition demand for a discussion in the state Assembly over the controversial social science textbook for Class VII, which allegedly promotes ''atheism and anti-religious sentiments.'' Replying to an adjournement motion sought to be moved by the Opposition, Education Minister M A Baby said there was nothing in the text book that hurt the religious sentiments. ''All such charges are baseless and the government is ready for a detailed discussion on the matter.'' He said the text book was prepared as per the stipulations of the curriculam committee comprising several eminent people.

It was also a strange argument that there was no mention of the Father of the Nation Mahatma Gandhi in the textbook. His name was mentioned in several places in connection with the Freedom Struggle, he added.

Leader of the Opposition Oommen Chandy also welcomed the government's offer for a detailed discussion on the matter.

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