Supreme Court Cracks Down On NCERT Book, Contempt Action Likely

The Supreme Court has ordered an immediate nationwide seizure of an NCERT Class 8 Social Science textbook over remarks about “corruption in the judiciary.” The court has banned its publication and circulation and is considering contempt action against officials. Digital copies must also be removed. The matter is far from closed.

Why The Supreme Court Is Angry

The case was heard by a Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, along with Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi. The court said the references in the textbook appeared to be a calculated move that left the judiciary “bleeding.” The language was strong. Unusually strong.

According to the court, the chapter discussed corruption but failed to highlight the historic role of the judiciary. It did not mention safeguarding constitutional morality, protecting the basic structure doctrine, or improving access to justice. That imbalance raised concern.

The Bench observed that educational material must not undermine constitutional institutions. Criticism is allowed, yes. But not in a way that damages public confidence.

Immediate Ban And Seizure Ordered

The Supreme Court passed sweeping interim directions. It ordered NCERT, along with Union and State education authorities, to seize all physical copies of the textbook from schools, shops, storage units, everywhere.

Digital versions must also be taken down from online platforms. A complete and absolute ban has been imposed on further printing, publishing, or sharing of the book. Any violation will be treated as wilful disobedience of the court’s order.

The court fixed personal responsibility on NCERT Director Dinesh Prasad Saklani and school authorities to ensure compliance. Principal Secretaries of Education in all states must submit compliance reports within two weeks.

Contempt Action On The Table

Show-cause notices have been issued to the Secretary of the Department of School Education and the NCERT Director. They have to explain why action under the Contempt of Courts Act should not be taken.

The court said the wording in the book may not be a simple mistake. If deliberate, it could amount to criminal contempt for interfering with the administration of justice and scandalising the institution.

Chief Justice Surya Kant made it clear the matter will not be closed casually. As head of the judiciary, he said it is his duty to fix accountability. The Bench questioned whether the apology issued was genuine or only damage control.

Apology Fails To Convince Court

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, offered an unconditional apology. He informed the court that 32 copies had entered the market but were being withdrawn immediately.

However, the Bench was not satisfied. The Chief Justice remarked that there was not a single word of apology in the official notice. He even said, “They fired the gunshot — the judiciary is bleeding today.” The comment underlined how seriously the court views the issue.

The court also asked for names and credentials of syllabus committee members involved in drafting the chapter. Original meeting minutes approving the content must be produced.

What Happens Next

The Supreme Court has listed the matter for further hearing after four weeks. Meanwhile, authorities must ensure full compliance with the seizure and ban orders.

The court clarified that it does not want to silence academic debate. But it will not allow material that presents a biased narrative capable of scandalising the judiciary.

This controversy has sparked a larger debate on how institutions are portrayed in textbooks. It also raises questions about oversight in syllabus approvals. For now, the message from the top court is clear. Accountability will be fixed, and the matter will not fade quietly.