New Delhi:
A reference book for class 8 Social Studies of Rajasthan Board of Secondary Education (RBSE) sparked a massive controversy after it described freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak as 'father of terrorism'.
The book under the chapter "incidents of National Movement during 18th and 19th century" stated that "Tilak demonstrated a path towards national movement, therefore, he is called as the father of terrorism."
The book further read that Tilak became a “thorn” in the eyes of the Britishers because he instilled the mantra of freedom among the masses.
"Tilak clearly believed that we cannot achieve anything just by pleading the British officers. Through Shivaji and Ganpati festivals, Tilak aroused unique awareness in the country. He instilled the mantra of freedom among the masses, due to which he became a thorn in the eyes of the British," the book further read.
Reacting to the controversy, Private School Association Director Kailash Sharma said that describing Tilak as “father of terrorism” was highly condemnable. He said that historians should be consulted before writing or making such controversial changes in textbooks.
The book, published by a Mathura-based publisher, was being used by private English-medium schools affiliated to the Rajasthan education board.
