Supreme Court Responds to Controversial NCERT Chapter on Judicial Corruption

A heated debate has emerged over a chapter in the NCERT Class 8 Social Science textbook that discusses judicial corruption. The Supreme Court has taken serious note of the issue, labeling it a calculated attack on the judiciary's integrity. Chief Justice Surya Kant has demanded accountability and initiated a thorough investigation, stating that mere apologies from the government and NCERT are insufficient. The chapter's portrayal of the judiciary has raised concerns among legal experts, who stress the importance of educating children about institutional weaknesses in a respectful manner. As NCERT begins the process of revising the chapter, the case remains open for further hearings.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 26, 2026, 12:05 IST

Controversy Surrounds NCERT's Chapter on Judicial Corruption

A significant controversy has erupted regarding a chapter titled 'Corruption in the Judiciary' in the NCERT Class 8 Social Science textbook. This chapter discusses issues such as corruption at various levels of the judiciary and the substantial backlog of cases, which has drawn sharp criticism from the Supreme Court. Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant labeled it a "deep-rooted, orchestrated conspiracy" aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the judiciary, asserting that he would not allow anyone to undermine the institution's dignity.

On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, the Supreme Court took suo motu cognizance of the matter and registered a case. A bench of three judges, led by CJI Surya Kant and including Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pancholi, held a hearing on Thursday, February 26, 2026. The court expressed that the issue was of "serious concern" and appeared to be a "calculated attack." CJI Kant firmly stated, "I will not permit anyone to defame the institution or compromise its integrity. It is my duty to identify those responsible; heads must roll."

Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi raised concerns in court about the portrayal of the judiciary as corrupt to Class 8 students. The chapter, titled 'The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society,' included corruption among the challenges faced, along with mentions of a shortage of judges, complex procedures, and poor infrastructure contributing to pending cases.

During the proceedings, both the central government and NCERT offered unconditional apologies. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stated that the error was unintentional and emphasized full respect for the judiciary. NCERT expressed regret, clarifying that there was no intention to misrepresent and acknowledged that the chapter's content was unbalanced. Sources from the government indicated that the controversial section would be removed, and the authors would not be involved in future projects related to the Ministry of Education. However, the court deemed the apology insufficient, calling for a thorough investigation and asserting that mere apologies would not suffice; accountability must be established.

This controversy has sparked a debate regarding the portrayal of sensitive institutions within the education system. Experts argue that while it is essential for children to be aware of institutional weaknesses, the approach must be balanced and respectful. Following the Supreme Court's stern remarks, NCERT has initiated the process of revising or removing the chapter, with the case pending for further hearings.