New Delhi’s Supreme Court delivered a powerful verdict on Thursday, halting distribution of NCERT’s Class 8 Social Science book after it was accused of maligning the judiciary with corruption allegations. A bench headed by CJI Suryakant termed the inclusions a ‘calculated plot’ to discredit the courts, instructing immediate market withdrawal.
The petition, raised by prominent lawyers including Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, pointed to explicit mentions of judicial graft unfit for school curricula. Sibal expressed dismay as a member of the legal fraternity, noting the potential to poison young minds against the justice system.
During proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta apologized on NCERT’s behalf, revealing disciplinary action against two chapter authors, barring them from future UGC or ministry roles. However, the court dismissed this as insufficient, likening it to letting perpetrators ‘fire shots at the judiciary and escape unscathed.’
CJI Suryakant stressed the foundational principles of constitutional separation of powers, asserting that attacks on any pillar threaten democracy’s fabric. He probed whether copies lingered online or in stores, demanding swift retrieval. Mehta confirmed recall of limited circulated copies and promised a comprehensive book overhaul.
With an in-depth probe ordered and hearings set for March 11, the court reaffirmed zero tolerance for threats to judicial honor. This case highlights ongoing vigilance needed to safeguard educational content from biased narratives that could undermine public confidence in institutions.