Mumbai: A class XII health and physical education book allegedly being taught in some CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) schools in the city has caused a furore among parents after it emerged that a chapter explaining an ideal female body mentions specific sizes that are deemed to be derogatory. While CBSE denied recommending the book for its schools, social media was abuzz with criticism for the language used in the chapter.
The controversial chapter — “Exercise makes figure beautiful”, while explaining the ideal figure of male and female bodies under the heading 'differences in shape' reads, “There is a vast difference in the shape of males and females; the 36-24-36 inches shape of females is considered the best. That is why in Miss World or Miss Universe competitions, such type of shape is also taken into consideration. The V shape body in case of males is considered the best.”
Initially, an image in a section of the book comparing physical and anatomical differences between males and females was posted on social media. A parent requesting anonymity said, “This is an absurd and very offensive method of teaching youngsters. We expect the language of the text book to be sober and non-controversial and in line with our culture.” The parent further said that the CBSE should take cognisance of this and issue clarifications as to how such a book was permitted to be taught in their schools.
However, CBSE refuted recommending the text book. Rama Sharma, CBSE spokesperson said, “CBSE does not recommend books by any private publishers to the affiliate schools. Rule 15.1 (d) of the Affiliation bye-laws of the board clearly states that the school will follow the syllabus on the basis of curriculum prescribed by NCERT/CBSE and text books published by NCERT or CBSE as far as practicable.”
“The reference to CBSE in this news is fervently denied. It is totally incorrect and does not have any credible base,” she said, adding, “The content must be verified and checked to prevent anything obnoxious that hurts the feelings of any class, community, gender, or religious group in society. If prescribing books with such content, needful cognisance will be taken.”
