SC issues notice to NCERT chief over Class 8 chapter on ‘judicial corruption’: 'Heads must roll'

The Chief Justice of India banned the NCERT textbook chapter and prohibited the publication

The Supreme Court on Thursday issued a show-cause notice to the NCERT Chairman regarding the inclusion of a chapter on “corruption in the judiciary” in a Class 8 textbook.

The Chief Justice of India banned the NCERT textbook chapter and prohibited the publication, re-printing, and digital sharing of the copies.

“We would like to have a deeper probe. As head of the judiciary, it is my duty to ensure accountability; heads must roll," Chief Justice Surya Kant said as he grilled Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the NCERT.

The CJI said he will not close these proceedings until there is some accountability.

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.

Earlier, the NCERT   issued an apology and withdrew the distribution of its newly released Class 8 Social Science textbook after "inappropriate textual material and error of judgement" were found in a chapter on the judiciary.

In a press statement, NCERT said that the Social Science textbook, "Exploring Society: India and Beyond, Vol II" for Class 8, was released on February 24, 2026. However, upon receiving the textbook, it was observed that certain inappropriate textual material and error of judgement had inadvertently crept into Chapter No 4, entitled "The Role of Judiciary in our Society" (pages 125-142).

The Department of School Education and Literacy (Ministry of Education) also made a similar observation and directed that the distribution of this book be kept on strict hold until further orders. The same has been complied with, NCERT said.

NCERT clarified that it holds the judiciary in the highest esteem and considers it to be the upholder of the Indian Constitution and protector of Fundamental Rights.

"The aforesaid error is purely unintentional and NCERT regrets the inclusion of inappropriate material in the said chapter," the statement said.

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