SC Slams NCERT Over Class 8 Judiciary Chapter

The Supreme Court of India on Thursday strongly criticised the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) over a recently introduced Class 8 social science chapter that discussed issues such as judicial corruption and case backlogs.

The court described the development as serious and ordered immediate steps, including a ban on further publication of the textbook containing the chapter. It also directed authorities to seize physical and digital copies currently in circulation.

Show-Cause Notice Issued

A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant issued a show-cause notice to the NCERT director. The court said it wanted a deeper probe into how the chapter was introduced and approved.

During the hearing, the bench made several sharp observations. It remarked that the judiciary appeared to be under attack and said the material had already spread through online platforms and stores.

The court further stated that if such actions went unchecked, they could affect public confidence in the judiciary.

Concern Over Impact on Institutions

The bench observed that portraying the judiciary as corrupt in a textbook could send a concerning message to students and teachers. It noted that the issue appeared serious enough to warrant further examination.

The court also said that such conduct, if established, could fall within the scope of criminal contempt, given its potential long-term impact on the institution’s dignity.

In addition, the Supreme Court ordered a blanket ban on further publication and distribution of the book containing the “offending chapter.” It directed the Centre and state authorities to ensure immediate compliance.

The matter will be heard again on March 11 as part of a suo motu case.

What the Chapter Contained

The controversy began after NCERT introduced a revised Class 8 social science textbook titled “The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society.”

Unlike previous editions, which primarily explained the structure and functioning of courts, the new chapter also discussed systemic challenges. These included alleged instances of corruption, access to justice for economically weaker sections, case backlogs, and shortage of judges.

The chapter reportedly cited data estimating around 81,000 pending cases in the Supreme Court, approximately 62.40 lakh in high courts, and nearly 4.70 crore in district and subordinate courts.

It also mentioned that efforts were being made at both state and Union levels to improve transparency and strengthen trust in the judicial system.

Broader Debate

The case has triggered wider discussion around curriculum content, institutional accountability, and the portrayal of constitutional bodies in school textbooks.

While the chapter has now been withdrawn, the Supreme Court’s observations indicate that the issue will undergo further scrutiny in the coming weeks.