NCERT issues 'unconditional apology' over 'corruption in judiciary' chapter
What's the story
The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has withdrawn the entire Class 8 social science textbook, Exploring Society: India and Beyond, and issued an apology after facing criticism over its Chapter IV. The chapter, titled "The Role of Judiciary in our Society," discussed issues like corruption, case backlogs, and a shortage of judges in the judicial system.
Apology issued
'Unconditional apology' issued by NCERT
In a statement, NCERT said, "The Director and Members of NCERT hereby tender an unconditional and unqualified apology for the said Chapter IV. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused and appreciate the understanding of all stakeholders. NCERT remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of accuracy, sensitivity, and responsibility in educational content." It also added that the entire book has been withdrawn from circulation.
Judicial oversight
Supreme Court's remarks on protecting institutional integrity
The decision comes after the Supreme Court last month expressed "grave concern" over the matter, with Chief Justice Surya Kant stressing that no one should be allowed to "defame the institution." "The bar and the bench are perturbed. Every stakeholder in the system is really perturbed." "I will not anyone on earth to taint the integrity of the institution...Whoseoever high it may be, the law will take its course. I know how to deal with it," CJI said.
Ban
Supreme Court bans NCERT textbook
Consequently, the Supreme Court ordered a ban on the textbook and issued notices under the Contempt of Courts Act to NCERT Director Dr. Dinesh Prasad Saklani and the Department of School Education. It ordered the immediate withdrawal of all copies of the controversial NCERT textbook from public access, both hard and digital copies. The court also directed the NCERT Director to ensure compliance with this order and submit a report within two weeks.