JAISALMER: The depiction of Jaisalmer as a part of the Maratha empire in the NCERT Social Science Textbook for Class 8 has come under fire from a member of the erstwhile Jaisalmer royal family.
The issue sparked significant online outrage on Tuesday, with strong demands to halt the alleged distortion of history and calls for action as Rajput pride was perceived to be under threat. The controversy centers on a map featured on page 71 of Unit 3 in the chapter The Rise of the Marathas, which depicts Jaisalmer as part of the Maratha Empire.
Chaitanya Raj Singh Bhati, a member of the erstwhile royal family of Jaisalmer, took to X on Monday to charge that the depiction of Jaisalmer as a part of the then Maratha Empire “is historically misleading, factually baseless and deeply objectionable.” He alleged, “Such unverified and historically unsubstantiated information not only raises questions about the credibility of institutions like NCERT but also hurts our glorious history and public sentiments. This issue is not merely a textbook error but appears to be an attempt to tarnish the sacrifices, sovereignty, and valorous saga of our ancestors.”
The post adds that authentic historical sources mention any Maratha dominance, invasion, taxation, or authority of the princely Jaisalmer state. “On the contrary, our royal records clearly state that the Marathas never had any interference in the Jaisalmer princely state,” he said.
Bhati also asked Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan to take note of the issue seriously and rectify the error immediately. “This is not just a matter of factual correction but is connected to our historical dignity, self-respect, and the integrity of the national curriculum. Prompt and concrete action is expected on this matter,” he said.
History buff @Ajatashatru was quite upset. His response to Bhati on X read, “Absolutely appalling to see NCERT peddling such a historically inaccurate and deeply disrespectful narrative to please political masters. To portray Jaisalmer as part of the Maratha Empire is not just factually wrong. It’s an erasure of Rajput sovereignty and sacrifice.”
Shakti Singh, who describes himself as a military veteran, on X posted, “There is a need for all Rajput princely states, heads and Rajput organisations to come together and protest against the distortion of history. All Rajput MPs and MLAs must be requested to write a letter to the Education Minister protesting against these changes in the NCERT books. “
NCERT declined comment on the issue. The Education Ministry is yet to respond to queries in this connection.
Meanwhile, a source told to TNIE, “We have asked NCERT to respond to the allegations made against them. It will be shared with the media when it is made public.”