Supreme Court Halts NCERT Textbook Chapter on Judicial Corruption, Orders Review
Latest Delhi – The Supreme Court of India has intervened in a controversy surrounding a Class 8 social science textbook published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), banning its publication and ordering a review of a chapter addressing corruption within the judiciary. The Court expressed strong dissatisfaction with NCERT’s handling of the matter, particularly its decision to rewrite and reintroduce the chapter after initial objections.
Court Expresses Displeasure with NCERT’s Actions
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court voiced its concern over NCERT’s stance that the controversial chapter on judicial corruption had been “duly rewritten” and slated for inclusion in textbooks for the 2026-27 academic year. The Court was “disturbed” to learn that NCERT intended to include the chapter in a revised form despite previously raised objections in a suo motu case. LiveLaw reported on the proceedings.
Concerns Over Lack of Transparency
The Court noted its disappointment that the affidavit submitted by NCERT Director, Professor Dinesh Prasad Saklani, failed to disclose the identities of the “alleged domain experts” who had rewritten the chapter and approved its incorporation into the curriculum. This lack of transparency further fueled the Court’s concerns.
Committee to Review Chapter, Halt to Publication
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the Court that the chapter would not be reprinted without review by a high-level committee constituted by the Central Government. The Court directed the Government of India to establish this committee, comprising a former Judge, an academician, and a renowned practitioner of law. Until the committee’s approval, the revised chapter is prohibited from publication. BBC News also covered the ban.
Individuals Involved Barred from Government Projects
The Court also barred Professor Michel Danino, Ms. Suparna Diwakar, and Mr. Alok Prasanna Kumar – individuals involved in preparing the chapter – from participating in other government projects. The Court questioned their understanding of the Indian judiciary, suggesting they may have misrepresented facts to portray a negative image. The Court stated that these individuals should not be associated with curriculum development or textbook finalization, but allowed them the opportunity to seek modification of this order with a sufficient explanation.
Action Against Social Media Dissemination
Expressing concern over the spread of irresponsible content online, the Supreme Court directed the Government of India to identify websites and individuals involved in disseminating the chapter’s content and to present their details to the Court for appropriate action. The Court emphasized its commitment to addressing “mischief-mongers” and stated it would pursue those responsible even if they were “hiding outside the country.”
Clarification on Legitimate Criticism
The Court clarified that its actions were not intended to stifle legitimate criticism of the judiciary. It acknowledged that constructive feedback and highlighting deficiencies are welcome steps for improvement.
NCERT Apology and Withdrawal
Following the Court’s initial concerns, NCERT issued a public apology for publishing the chapter and withdrew the book from distribution. The apology was described as “unconditional and unqualified.”
Background of the Controversy
The controversy arose after media reports highlighted that the new NCERT social science textbook for Class 8 included a chapter listing “corruption in judiciary” and case backlogs as major challenges. Senior Advocates Kapil Sibal and Dr. A.M. Singhvi initially raised concerns with the Court, prompting the suo motu action.