The Supreme Court on Thursday sharply criticised the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) over references to ‘corruption in the judiciary’ in a Class 8 Social Science textbook, describing the episode as a ‘calculated move’ that has left the judiciary ‘bleeding’.
A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, hearing a suo motu case titled ‘In Re: Social Science Textbook for Grade–8 (Part-2) published by NCERT and ancillary issues’, ordered immediate nationwide seizure of the book, takedown of digital copies, and a complete ban on its publication or circulation.
The Bench also comprised Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi.
The court recorded its prima facie view that the publication sought to undermine the judiciary’s authority and dignity, cautioning that unchecked narratives could erode public confidence.
The Bench issued show-cause notices to the Secretary of the Department of School Education, the Ministry of Education, and NCERT Director Dr Dinesh Prasad Saklani, asking why the court should not initiate action under the Contempt of Courts Act.
It further directed coordinated action with Union and State authorities to seize all physical and digital copies, fixing personal responsibility on the NCERT Director and school authorities.
The court asked Principal Secretaries of Education across states to submit compliance reports within two weeks.
The court imposed a ‘complete and absolute ban’ on further publication or dissemination and sought disclosure of the syllabus committee members and meeting minutes approving the content.
Bench Questions Sincerity of Apology
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta tendered an unconditional apology and told the court that 32 copies had entered the market, with withdrawal underway.
The Bench questioned the sincerity of the apology, remarking, “There is not a single word of apology in their notice.”
Observing that accountability must be fixed, the CJI said, “As head of the judiciary, it is my duty to find out who is responsible. We will not close this until we satisfy ourselves.”
The matter will take place again after four weeks.
Also Read: CJI Surya Kant Slams NCERT Textbook References To Judicial Corruption
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