The Supreme Court has issued a nationwide ban on a Class 8 Social Science textbook published by NCERT due to its references to “corruption in the judiciary.” The Court expressed concerns that the textbook aimed to undermine the authority and dignity of the judiciary. It highlighted the omission of the judiciary’s significant contributions to upholding democratic values.
The controversial textbook chapter, titled “Exploring Society: India and Beyond,” included a section on corruption in the judiciary. The Supreme Court noted that the chapter highlighted complaints against the judiciary without acknowledging its role in upholding constitutional morality. It emphasized the need for a thorough review of the textbook’s content.
The Court warned that the textbook’s content could erode public trust in the judiciary and influence young minds negatively. It clarified that the intervention was not to suppress legitimate criticism but to ensure the integrity of the national curriculum. The Court also cautioned that deliberate publication of such material could lead to criminal contempt charges.
The Supreme Court directed the immediate seizure and removal of all physical and digital copies of the textbook. It imposed a complete ban on further publication or dissemination of the controversial material. The NCERT Director and school principals were tasked with ensuring compliance, and state authorities were required to submit affidavits within two weeks.
