In a powerful judicial intervention, theSupreme Court of Indiahas issued a set of five major orders after banning the circulation of a Class 8 NCERT textbook that included a chapter discussing “corruption in the judiciary.” The bench, headed byChief Justice of India Surya Kant, expressed strong objection to the portrayal of the judiciary, asserting that such content could undermine public faith in the legal system.
The first order imposes ablanket banon the publication, distribution, and sale of the contentious textbook — both in physical and digital formats — ensuring the chapter does not continue to circulate. The court hasdirected the seizure of all available copiesand has instructed authorities to remove digital versions from public access immediately.
In addition, the Supreme Court hasissued show‑cause noticesto the NCERT Director and the Secretary, Department of School Education, asking them to explain why action, including under the Contempt of Courts Act, should not be initiated against them for allowing the inclusion of the contested chapter. Officials associated with drafting and defending the chapter have also been barred from future work with NCERT or related ministries.
The Chief Justice underscored that the judiciary’s dignity and independence must not be called into question, especially in materials aimed at impressionable students. The court also demandednames and credentials of individuals involved in drafting the chapterand original minutes from meetings where the chapter was finalised. These measures form part of a broader push foraccountability and transparencyin curriculum development and institutional oversight.
Overall, the Supreme Court’s intervention highlights its resolve to protect the institutional integrity of the judiciary and ensure educational content accurately reflects democratic values, while placing clear responsibilities on educational authorities.
