Noida, June 26 -- Former NCERT Director JS Rajput on Friday defended the inclusion of a verse from the Manusmriti in the new Class 9 Social Science textbook, saying that old literature should be studied and understood even if some parts are debated or not accepted today.

Rajput said that he does not agree with calling the Manusmriti a controversial text, adding that many ancient writings contain ideas that modern society may not accept but are still studied by scholars.

He said he has read the Manusmriti, including disputed sections, and believes it contains important ideas that reflect the thinking of that period.

Speaking to ANI, Rajput said, "... I don't agree with calling Manusmriti a controversial book. Many texts across the world...