Supreme Court displeased with NCERT Class 8 chapter on “corruption in judiciary”, CJI hints at action

The Supreme Court of India on Tuesday expressed serious concern over content in an NCERT Class 8 textbook referring to corruption in the judiciary. Taking a strong stand, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said he would not allow any institution to be defamed and indicated that the matter could invite action.

The issue was raised before the Chief Justice in New Delhi by senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, who said they were disturbed by the idea of such material being taught to school students. They urged the court to take suo motu cognizance of the matter.

Responding firmly, the CJI said he was already aware of the issue and had received several calls and messages about it. “I will not allow anyone to defame this institution. I know how to deal with it,” he remarked, adding that the issue appeared to be deliberate and well planned.

The controversy centres on a chapter in the NCERT Class 8 Social Science textbook that includes a section titled “Corruption in the Judiciary”. The court acknowledged the concerns raised and assured that appropriate steps would be taken. The CJI also thanked the senior lawyers for bringing the issue to his notice.