SC Flags ‘Judicial Corruption’ Chapter in Class 8 Book

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) may remove a chapter related to “judicial corruption” from a Class 8 social science textbook after objections from the Supreme Court.

According to reports citing official sources, the revised textbook has already been taken down from the NCERT website.

Supreme Court Takes Suo Motu Cognisance

A three-judge bench of the Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance of certain portions in the textbook that it described as “objectionable.”

The bench comprised Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi. The issue was reportedly brought to the court’s attention by senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Singhvi, who sought urgent consideration.

During proceedings, the Chief Justice expressed strong concern, stating that the integrity of the judiciary must not be undermined.

Content Under Scrutiny

The chapter reportedly included references to case backlogs, shortage of judges, and concerns regarding corruption in the judiciary. It also cited a statement attributed to former Chief Justice of India B R Gavai.

According to sources quoted in reports, the Union law ministry was not consulted to cross-verify certain facts before publication. Government sources also indicated that if corruption was to be discussed, it should have been framed in the context of all three organs of government — the executive, legislature and judiciary.

Quote Allegedly Taken Out of Context

Reports suggest that the book quoted a July 2025 remark by former CJI Gavai, in which he had said that instances of corruption and misconduct negatively affect public confidence in the judiciary. He had also emphasised transparency and accountability as democratic values.

However, sources have claimed that the quote may have been presented out of context. It is reported that the former CJI was unhappy with how his statement was used in the textbook.

At the same time, government sources noted that data related to judicial performance and backlogs is available in parliamentary records and through the National Judicial Data Grid.

NCERT Calls Internal Review

Following the Supreme Court’s intervention, NCERT reportedly held an internal meeting to review the chapter. Subject experts who contributed to and approved the content are expected to reassess the material.

While NCERT functions as an autonomous body, sources indicated that those involved in drafting the chapter should have exercised greater caution.

What Happens Next

Officials have suggested that the controversial portions may be removed after review. No final decision has been publicly announced yet.

The development comes amid wider discussions about curriculum content and the presentation of constitutional institutions in school textbooks.

The matter is expected to be examined further as NCERT reviews its next steps in light of the Supreme Court’s observations.