NCERT Issues Apology and Withdraws Controversial Textbook Chapter on Judicial Corruption

The NCERT has publicly apologized and withdrawn a controversial chapter on judicial corruption from a Class VIII textbook after facing backlash from the Supreme Court. The chapter, which highlighted significant issues within the judicial system, was deemed objectionable by a three-judge bench. Chief Justice Surya Kant emphasized the need to protect the integrity of the judiciary, leading to a complete ban on the textbook's further distribution. The government has also expressed concern and promised accountability for those involved in the chapter's creation. This incident raises important questions about educational content and its implications.

By Ambika Singh Mar 10, 2026, 10:53 IST

NCERT's Apology and Textbook Withdrawal

New Delhi: On Tuesday, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) publicly apologized for including a chapter addressing judicial corruption in a recent textbook, which had drawn criticism from the Supreme Court. The entire textbook has now been retracted.

The Class VIII social science textbook highlighted significant issues within the judicial system, including rampant corruption, a substantial backlog of cases, and an insufficient number of judges.

In their statement, NCERT noted, "The National Council of Educational Research and Training has recently published a social science textbook, 'Exploring Society: India and Beyond' Grade 8 (Part 2), which included Chapter 4 titled 'The Role of Judiciary in our Society.'"

"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 The entire book has been withdrawn and is not available," they added.

A three-judge bench, led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, took notice of the 'objectionable' remarks regarding the judiciary in NCERT textbooks after senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Singhvi raised the issue for urgent review.

CJI Kant expressed strong disapproval of the chapter on judicial corruption, asserting that no one should be permitted to tarnish the judiciary's reputation.

The Supreme Court has enforced a 'complete blanket ban' on any further publication, reprinting, or digital distribution of the Class VIII social science textbook due to its 'offensive' content regarding judicial corruption, stating that the institution is suffering.

The government has also expressed its discontent over the controversial chapter's inclusion, with Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan vowing to ensure accountability and take appropriate action against those responsible for its drafting.