Two weeks after the Supreme Court banned a Class 8 social science textbook due to a controversial chapter on the judiciary, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) issued an unconditional public apology.
Published in newspapers, the statement reveals, “The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has recently published a social science textbook, ‘Exploring Society: India and Beyond’ Grade 8 (Part-II), which contained Chapter IV titled ‘The Role of Judiciary in our Society’. The Director and Members of NCERT hereby tender an unconditional and unqualified apology for the said Chapter IV. The entire book has been withdrawn and is not available.”
Why Did NCERT’s Chapter on Judiciary Cause Controversy?
The controversy centered around a section discussing ‘corruption in the judiciary’, which drew sharp criticism from Chief Justice of India Surya Kant. He said, “I will not allow anyone on earth to taint the integrity of the institution and defame the institution. At any cost, I will not permit it. Whosoever high it may be, the law will take its course. I know how to deal with it.”
NCERT quickly halted distribution of the textbook, admitting that certain “inappropriate” content and an “error of judgement” had unintentionally appeared in the chapter.
What Action Did the Supreme Court Take Against NCERT?
The Supreme Court took suo motu action, issuing a blanket ban on the book, ordering the seizure of all physical copies, and directing the removal of digital versions. The court stressed that such material, if left unchecked, could erode public faith in the judiciary. “No one will be allowed to go scot-free. It is my duty as the head of the institution to find out who is responsible; heads must roll,” the Chief Justice stated.
How Did the Centre Respond to the Controversy?
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, offered an unqualified apology on behalf of the Ministry of Education. He stated that two officials responsible for the reference to ‘corruption in the judiciary’ would “never work with the UGC or any ministry again.”
However, the Chief Justice remained unconvinced, “That is of very little consequence. They fired a gunshot, and the judiciary is bleeding today,” he remarked.
What Steps Did NCERT Take Following the Ban?
In response, NCERT withdrew the textbook entirely from circulation. Officials reiterated that the inclusion of the controversial chapter was unintentional and expressed regret over the error.
This incident highlights the need for careful handling of judicial matters in educational materials and the intense scrutiny such content faces from the Supreme Court and educational authorities.
