Will Kerala's Class 10 Textbooks Now Feature the 'Constitutional Powers of the Governor'?
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Synopsis
In a significant move amid rising tensions, the Kerala government has announced the inclusion of the 'constitutional powers of the Governor' in Class 10 textbooks. This decision follows a series of confrontations between state officials and Raj Bhavan, highlighting the ongoing political complexities in Kerala. What does this mean for education and governance in the state?
Key Takeaways
- The constitutional powers of the Governor will be added to Class 10 textbooks in Kerala.
- State Education Minister V. Sivankutty emphasized the importance of this knowledge for students.
- The decision follows tensions between the Kerala government and Raj Bhavan.
- Previous incidents have highlighted the ongoing political friction in the state.
- The relationship dynamics between state officials and the Governor continue to evolve.
Thiruvananthapuram, June 20 (NationPress) Amid rising tensions between the Kerala government and Raj Bhavan, it has been announced that the “constitutional powers of the Governor” will be incorporated into the Class 10 textbooks in the state starting this academic year.
The State Education Minister, V. Sivankutty, shared this information with the press after staging a walkout from an official function at the Governor's residence on Thursday, where a controversial image resembling the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) depiction of Bharat Mata was displayed.
On Friday, he stated that the subject of the Governor's powers would initially be included in Class 10 textbooks. “As the curriculum evolves, it will also be integrated into other grades. This is essential for students to understand,” Sivankutty emphasized.
This incident isn't the first instance of a State Minister objecting to the RSS-style Bharat Mata image; earlier this month, during World Environment Day celebrations, State Agriculture Minister P. Prasad avoided a Raj Bhavan event upon learning that the same image would be featured.
To avert confrontation, the state government promptly organized a parallel event at the Secretariat.
Notably, tensions between Raj Bhavan and the state government have deteriorated, especially during the tenure of Governor Rajendra V. Arlekar’s predecessor, Arif Mohammed Khan, who had numerous disputes with Kerala Ministers, including Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. On several occasions, even customary greetings were absent when they shared the same stage.
This tension escalated when neither Vijayan nor his Cabinet Ministers attended Khan's farewell when he departed from Kerala.
However, Vijayan was present to welcome Governor Arlekar upon his arrival to take the oath of office.
Many were astonished when Governor Arlekar visited Vijayan’s residence and presented him with gifts on his 80th birthday last month, fueling speculation of a newfound camaraderie between the two.
Yet, with the recent decision to incorporate the Governor's powers into the educational curriculum, it seems that this camaraderie was fleeting.
Point of View
The inclusion of the constitutional powers of the Governor in Kerala's educational curriculum reflects the ongoing political dynamic within the state. This move aims to foster awareness among students about governance, but it also underscores the tensions between the state government and Raj Bhavan. As we navigate these complexities, it is essential to prioritize educational integrity while addressing political realities.
NationPress
20/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the constitutional powers of the Governor being included in textbooks?
The Kerala government aims to educate students about the roles and responsibilities of the Governor, which has become a topic of contention amid rising tensions with Raj Bhavan.
Who announced this decision?
The announcement was made by State Education Minister V. Sivankutty during a press briefing.
When will this change take effect?
The inclusion will begin with the current academic year for Class 10 textbooks.
What triggered this decision?
The decision follows a controversial incident involving a display of an RSS-style image of Bharat Mata at an official event, leading to protests from State Ministers.
How has the relationship between the Kerala government and Raj Bhavan been described?
The relationship has been characterized by rising tensions and confrontations, particularly during the tenure of former Governor Arif Mohammed Khan.
