The Supreme Court criticized the NCERT for including references to “corruption in the judiciary” in a Class 8 Social Science textbook. The Court viewed this as a deliberate attempt to undermine the judiciary’s authority and dignity. It issued interim directions for a nationwide seizure of the textbook and a ban on its publication.
The apex court highlighted the failure of the textbook to acknowledge the judiciary’s historical contributions. It emphasized the importance of maintaining public confidence in constitutional institutions. Show-cause notices were issued to explain why action should not be taken against those responsible for the controversial chapter.
The Court ordered the immediate removal of all physical and digital copies of the textbook. It held the NCERT Director and school authorities personally responsible for compliance. The ban on further publication or dissemination of the material was imposed to prevent any disobedience of the Court’s order.
The Supreme Court emphasized that educational material should not present biased accounts that scandalize constitutional institutions. It sought disclosure of the syllabus committee members involved in drafting the chapter. The Court warned that deliberate interference with justice administration could amount to criminal contempt.
