NCERT withdraws textbook over 'corruption in judiciary' chapter backlash, issue apology
PTC News Desk: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has issued an apology and withdrawn the distribution of its newly released class 8 Social Science textbook after inappropriate textual material and error of judgment were found in a chapter on the judiciary.
In a press statement, NCERT said that the Social Science textbook, "Exploring Society: India and Beyond, Vol II" for Class 8, was released on February 24, 2026. However, upon receiving the textbook, it was observed that certain inappropriate textual material and error of judgement had inadvertently crept into Chapter No 4, entitled "The Role of Judiciary in our Society" (pages 125-142).
NCERT clarified that it holds the judiciary in the highest esteem and considers it to be the upholder of the Indian Constitution and protector of Fundamental Rights. "The aforesaid error is purely unintentional and NCERT regrets the inclusion of inappropriate material in the said chapter," the statement said.
Meanwhile, the Centre also extended apology before the Supreme Court over the controversy surrounding the chapter on judiciary corruption in a Class 8 NCERT Social Sciences textbook.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the government, said the Ministry had taken serious note of the issue and moved swiftly after the objectionable material surfaced.
“The two people involved with this chapter will never be involved with any activity of this ministry in the future,” he told the court.
- With inputs from agencies
