SC Bans NCERT Book Over Judiciary Corruption Chapter; PM Modi Seeks Accountability
The Supreme Court has imposed a blanket ban on an NCERT Class 8 textbook containing a chapter on judicial corruption. The court expressed strong displeasure, calling it a 'deep-rooted conspiracy' and ordered the seizure of all copies. Prime Minister Modi has also reportedly expressed unhappiness and demanded accountability for the inclusion of the controversial chapter.
Key Highlights
- Supreme Court bans NCERT textbook chapter on judicial corruption.
- Court orders seizure of all physical and digital copies of the book.
- PM Modi seeks accountability for the controversial NCERT chapter.
- NCERT apologizes, calls the inclusion an 'unintentional error'.
- Chapter to be rewritten for the 2026-27 academic session.
The Supreme Court of India has taken stringent action by imposing a complete and immediate ban on the circulation and digital dissemination of a Class 8 Social Sciences textbook published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). The controversial chapter, titled 'The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society,' reportedly discussed issues such as corruption within the judiciary, a massive backlog of cases, and a lack of adequate judges. The Supreme Court, hearing a suo motu case, expressed grave concern and strong displeasure over the content, with Chief Justice of India Surya Kant describing it as a potential 'deep-rooted conspiracy' and a 'calculated move' to defame the judiciary. The court ordered the seizure of all physical copies of the book, whether in circulation or in storage, and warned that any attempt to bypass the order would be treated as contempt of court. The bench, also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, issued show-cause notices to the NCERT Director and the Secretary of the Department of School Education, demanding an explanation for why contempt proceedings should not be initiated against them. The court emphasized that exposing young students to such biased narratives at an impressionable age is fundamentally wrong and could erode public trust in the judicial institution. The Supreme Court noted that the chapter lacked any mention of the judiciary's positive contributions and achievements, such as protecting civil rights and fundamental rights, presenting a one-sided view. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also reportedly expressed his displeasure over the controversy, with government sources indicating that he stressed the need to fix accountability for the inclusion of the controversial chapter. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan expressed regret over the incident, stating that there was 'no intention to insult the judiciary' and promising that an inquiry would be conducted and action taken against those responsible. NCERT had previously issued an apology, calling the inclusion of the material an 'error of judgment' and a 'purely unintentional' mistake. The council stated that it holds the judiciary in the highest esteem and that the objective of textbooks is to strengthen constitutional literacy and institutional respect. NCERT has assured that the chapter will be rewritten in consultation with appropriate authorities and republished for the 2026-27 academic session. The controversy first came to light when senior advocate Kapil Sibal flagged the issue in the Supreme Court. The court's intervention has led to a significant crackdown, with legal experts suggesting that the matter could even lead to criminal contempt proceedings if the actions are deemed deliberate. The Supreme Court's firm stance underscores its commitment to safeguarding the integrity and independence of the judiciary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main controversy surrounding the NCERT textbook?
The controversy centers on a chapter in an NCERT Class 8 textbook that discusses 'corruption in the judiciary.' The Supreme Court found this content objectionable and potentially damaging to the institution's integrity.
What action has the Supreme Court taken?
The Supreme Court has imposed a complete ban on the printing and digital circulation of the textbook. It has also ordered the seizure of all existing copies and issued show-cause notices to NCERT officials.
What is Prime Minister Modi's reported stance on the issue?
Sources indicate that Prime Minister Modi has expressed displeasure over the inclusion of the controversial chapter and has emphasized the need to fix accountability for it.
What has NCERT said about the chapter?
NCERT has apologized for the 'inappropriate content,' calling it an 'unintentional error' and an 'error of judgment.' They have stated that the chapter will be rewritten and republished.
When will the revised chapter be available?
The rewritten chapter is expected to be available for students from the 2026-27 academic session.