The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) formally apologized for the publication of a chapter in a Grade 8 social science textbook that addressed issues concerning corruption and backlog within the judiciary. The textbook, titled “Exploring Society: India and Beyond,” included a chapter named “The Role of Judiciary in our Society,” which has now been completely withdrawn. The NCERT acknowledged the decision to remove the book in light of feedback received from the Supreme Court.

Supreme Court’s Reprimand and Directives

The Supreme Court expressed strong disapproval of the chapter during a recent hearing, characterizing it as part of a “deep-rooted and well-planned conspiracy.” Following this criticism, the court issued a show-cause notice to the NCERT Director as well as the Secretary of School Education, demanding explanations on potential actions that could be taken against them related to the controversial content.

Seizure Order for Copies of the Textbook

The court further mandated the immediate seizure of both physical and digital copies of the textbook that included references to judicial “corruption.” A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi ordered the NCERT to collaborate with both Union and state education departments to retrieve all copies of the book. This includes instances where the book is being stored, sold, or used in educational institutions.

Compliance Responsibility Assigned

According to the Supreme Court’s directives, the responsibility for ensuring compliance lies with both the NCERT Director and the principals of schools that distributed the textbook. They are required to facilitate the confiscation of the book from their premises and must provide a compliance report detailing the actions implemented. The court also emphasized that no educational instruction should be conducted based on the withdrawn textbook.

Response to Public Concerns

The NCERT’s public apology and the withdrawal of the textbook highlight the ongoing discourse concerning the curriculum and its treatment of sensitive topics such as corruption in the judiciary. The authorities are taking steps to address these concerns, aiming to align educational materials with judicial standards and societal expectations.

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