The Supreme Court of India has barred the use of a Class 8 Social Science textbook issued by the National Council of Educational Research and Training that includes a chapter discussing corruption in the judiciary. The court directed that all printed copies be withdrawn and digital versions be removed immediately.
A bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant ordered the Centre and state governments to ensure strict compliance. It warned that any failure to follow the directions would invite serious consequences. The court also issued show cause notices to the NCERT Director and the School Education Secretary, seeking an explanation on why action should not be taken against those responsible for approving the content.
During the hearing, the Chief Justice said the court would identify accountability. He observed that the material appeared to weaken the dignity of the judiciary and affect public confidence. The bench noted that the contents suggested a deliberate attempt to undermine institutional authority and stated that such actions could fall within the scope of criminal contempt due to their long term impact. The matter has been listed for further hearing on March 11.
The case began after the court took suo motu notice of the chapter, which refers to corruption, case pendency, and shortage of judges in the Indian judicial system. The text states that nearly 81,000 cases are pending before the Supreme Court, 62.4 lakh in high courts, and 4.7 crore in district and subordinate courts. It also mentions internal accountability systems and notes that more than 1,600 complaints were received through the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System between 2017 and 2021.
The chapter quotes former Chief Justice of India B R Gavai, who in July 2025 said instances of corruption and misconduct had affected public trust. He stressed that rebuilding confidence requires swift, transparent, and decisive action and described accountability as a core democratic value.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta offered an unconditional apology on behalf of the Ministry of Education. However, the court observed that NCERT’s official communication did not clearly express regret and appeared to defend the inclusion of the chapter. The bench indicated it may order a detailed probe to determine how the content was approved and published.
Meanwhile, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan responded to the controversy after the court’s order and the issuance of contempt notices. Expressing regret, he assured that the government would fully comply with the Supreme Court’s directions and promised an inquiry into the matter. He said action would be taken against those found responsible.
“We respect the judiciary, and whatever the court has said, we will fully comply with it. I am deeply saddened by what has happened and express my regret over the incident,” the minister said while speaking in Jamshedpur.
