Supreme Court Issues Show-Cause Notice To NCERT, Bans Judiciary Chapter, Warns Of Legal Action For Sharing

The Supreme Court has issued a show-cause notice to the NCERT Chairman regarding a textbook line alleging corruption in the judiciary. The court seeks justification for the wording and clarity on who authorised publication, with the outcome potentially guiding corrective action to preserve public trust in judicial institutions.

The Supreme Court issues a show-cause notice to the NCERT Chairman over a textbook line referring to “corruption in judiciary”. The court questions what it calls a “biased narrative” about judges. The notice asks why such wording was used and seeks a detailed explanation.

The heading “'Biased Narrative': SC Issues Show-Cause Notice To NCERT Chairman Over 'Corruption In Judiciary' Reference” appears in case records. The matter relates to NCERT learning material used by school students. The court signals concern that such phrases may affect public trust in judicial institutions.

The Supreme Court has ordered an immediate ban on the NCERT textbook chapter that contains references to corruption in the judiciary.

The court has prohibited the publication, reprinting and digital circulation of the material and directed authorities to seize all physical copies currently in circulation.

It has also warned that any individual or organisation found sharing or distributing the chapter in any form, including online, will face strict legal action.

SC show-cause notice NCERT Chairman corruption in judiciary reference

Through the show-cause notice, the Supreme Court asks NCERT’s top official to justify the reference. The court also wants to know who cleared the passage for publication. The response will help decide if further action or correction of the content is required.

The case now waits for the NCERT Chairman’s formal reply within the time fixed by the Supreme Court. Any future hearing will likely examine how the material was drafted and reviewed. The outcome will guide what happens next to the questioned reference in the NCERT text.

NCERT Issues Apology:

The NCERT has issued an apology and halted the circulation of its newly released Class 8 Social Science textbook after controversy erupted over certain content related to the judiciary. The council said that the chapter contained inappropriate material and reflected an error in judgement, prompting the decision to withdraw the book from distribution.

Facing criticism, NCERT clarified that it has the highest respect for the judiciary and recognises it as a key pillar of the Constitution and a protector of fundamental rights. In an official statement, the council said the inclusion of the objectionable content was completely unintentional and expressed regret over the mistake.

According to NCERT, the Class 8 Social Science textbook titled "Exploring Society: India and Beyond, Vol II" was released on February 24, 2026. However, after copies reached readers, officials noticed problematic material in Chapter 4, titled "The Role of Judiciary in Our Society" (pages 125-142). The council stated that the issue was identified soon after publication, leading to the withdrawal of the textbook.

Centre Apologises:

The Centre expressed regret before the Supreme Court over the controversial chapter referring to judicial corruption in a Class 8 NCERT Social Science textbook. During the hearing, the court cautioned that contempt proceedings could be initiated against the council's chief over the disputed content.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant emphasised the need for a detailed probe, stating that accountability must be ensured. He said the matter would not be closed until responsibility is fixed and those behind the inclusion of the content are identified and held answerable.