Judiciary news: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) on Tuesday issued an apology after a Class 8 social science textbook, published by them, containing remarks on judicial corruption drew flak from the Supreme Court (SC). The council also confirmed that they have withdrawn the entire book from circulation. The book stirred controversy after a chapter published in it discussed challenges faced by the judiciary, including corruption, pendency of cases and the shortage of judges. 

NCERT faces backlash

The NCERT took to ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, saying that the textbook titled ‘Exploring Society: India and Beyond’ Grade 8 (Part 2) contained a chapter named ‘The Role of Judiciary in our society.’ The chapter triggered objections. The statement issued by NCERT read, “The Director and members of NCERT hereby tender an unconditional and unqualified apology for the said Chapter Four. The entire book has been withdrawn and is not available.” 

NCERT’s move follows action by the Supreme Court, which took cognisance of the content and ordered immediate action. 

Apex court takes Suo Motu cognisance

The hearing bench comprised Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, which took suo motu cognisance of the issue, after senior advocate Kapil Sibal, supported by Abhishek Singhvi raised concerns before the court. During the hearing, CJI Surya Kant slammed the NCERT over the inclusion of remarks related to judicial corruption, saying that no one is allowed to taint the judiciary or undermine its credibility. 

Court imposes blanket ban on book’s publication

The court then imposed a ‘complete blanket ban’ on the publication, reprinting or digital circulation of the textbook carrying the contentious details. It also remarked that ‘a gunshot has been fired and the institution is bleeding.’ On the other hand, Union ministers also plunged into action after the book kicked up the controversy. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assured the apex court that accountability would be fixed and appropriate action would be taken against the ones responsible for drafting the controversial chapter.