SC bans NCERT book over chapter on judiciary corruption, orders copies’ seizure, digital takedown

  The Supreme Court banned a class 8 NCERT book chapter on judicial corruption, ordering seizure of physical and digital copies. CJI Surya Kant cited contempt, warning of strict action, and issued show-cause notices to NCERT and education officials

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday imposed a blanket ban on class 8 NCERT book carrying a chapter on corruption in the judiciary, and ordered a seizure of all physical copies, along with takedown of its digital forms.

The apex court ordered that the Centre and state authorities comply with its directions immediately, and warned of “serious action” if directions are defied in any form.

---

The top court issued show cause notices to NCERT director, school education secretary to explain why action should be not taken against those responsible.

A bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant said there seemed to be a calculated move to undermine institution and demean dignity of judiciary.

The bench said such misconduct, having everlasting impact on judiciary, would fall within definition of criminal contempt.

“We would like to have a deeper probe,” the bench said.

The court said that if allowed to go unchecked, this will erode people’s faith in judiciary. “No one will be allowed to go scot-free.” The CJI said, “It is my duty as the head of the institution to find out who is responsible; heads must roll.” CJI Surya Kant said there appears to be a deep-rooted, well planned conspiracy to defame the judiciary.

Taking exception to the NCERT’s Wednesday communication, the SC said there was not a single word of apology in it, and instead, they have tried to justified it.

At the outset, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta tendered an unconditional and unqualified apology on behalf of Ministry of education.

The bench posted the mater for further hearing on march 11.