CJI Surya Kant Objects to NCERT Class 8 Textbook References on Judicial Corruption; SC Takes Suo Motu Cognisance
New Delhi: The Chief Justice of India, Surya Kant, on Thursday strongly objected to references to alleged judicial corruption in the Class 8 Social Science textbook published by National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), stating that the integrity of the judiciary cannot be allowed to be defamed.
A three-judge Bench comprising the CJI, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice Vipul M Pancholi took suo motu cognisance of the issue after senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi mentioned the matter for urgent consideration before the court.
The controversy centres around certain portions of the Class 8 Social Science textbook that list “corruption,” “case backlog,” and “shortage of judges” as key challenges facing the Indian judicial system. The Bench observed that while institutional challenges may be discussed academically, any sweeping references that could undermine public confidence in the judiciary must be examined carefully.
Addressing the concern, the CJI remarked that the matter goes beyond an individual grievance and concerns the entire institution. “The integrity of the judiciary is foundational to democracy. It cannot be permitted to be tarnished in a manner that affects public trust,” the Bench noted during the hearing.
Justice Bagchi further pointed out that the textbook appeared to omit crucial constitutional principles such as “constitutional integrity” and the “basic structure doctrine,” which form the backbone of India’s constitutional framework. The Bench indicated that a balanced and comprehensive presentation of the judicial system was essential in educational material meant for young students.
The Supreme Court has sought further details on the content and is expected to examine whether revisions or clarifications are required to ensure that the portrayal of the judiciary in school textbooks remains accurate, balanced, and constitutionally sound.
The matter is likely to be heard further in the coming days.
By:- Meghana Ganesh
