Supreme Court Expresses Outrage Over Controversial Chapter in NCERT Textbook
Supreme Court's Strong Reaction to NCERT Textbook Content
The Supreme Court has voiced its strong discontent regarding the inclusion of a chapter titled 'Corruption in the Judiciary' in the Class 8 NCERT textbook. The court has issued a show-cause notice to the Secretary of the Education Department and NCERT Director Dr. Dinesh Prasad Saklani. The court inquired why contempt or other legal actions should not be initiated against those responsible for creating this contentious content.
Complete Ban on Class 8 Textbook with Warning of Contempt
Despite NCERT's apology for the chapter, the bench comprising Chief Justice Suryakant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice Vipul M. Pancholi has refused to grant any relief. The court has imposed a total ban on the Class 8 textbook. The bench issued a clear warning that any attempt to disregard or bypass this order would be considered a direct interference in the administration of justice and contempt of court.
Committee Responsible for Controversial Chapter Summoned
The Supreme Court has directed NCERT to maintain a complete record of the 'Teaching-Learning Materials Committee' that approved this chapter. The court has instructed that the names of all members of the team that created the chapter, along with their educational qualifications and experience, be presented to establish accountability.
Chief Justice's Stern Remarks on Attacks Against Judiciary
During the hearing, the Chief Justice made a grave statement, indicating that there are organized attacks on the judiciary. He remarked, 'Today, the judiciary is drenched in blood, and anyone can say anything.' According to the Chief Justice, making such material available on the internet and in stores is a calculated conspiracy aimed at spreading misinformation throughout the education system. He labeled it a deep and orchestrated plot to tarnish the image of the Indian judiciary.
Demand for Strict Action from Solicitor General and Bar Council
BJP MP Manan Kumar Mishra stated that the Bar Council is extremely upset with this development. The Solicitor General, present in court, assured that strict action would be taken against those responsible for this matter. He called for the immediate withdrawal of all such books available in the market. Leaders of the Bar Council also supported the Supreme Court's firm stance, deeming it essential for preserving the institution's dignity.