NCERT Withdraws Class 8 Textbook and Issues Unconditional Apology Over Judiciary Chapter Row

New Delhi: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) on Tuesday issued an "unconditional and unqualified apology" and withdrew its recently published Class 8 social science textbook, "Exploring Society: India and Beyond (Part II)," after controversy over a chapter discussing corruption and systemic challenges within the Indian judiciary.

What is the reason of apology?

The NCERT issued an public apology in newspapers just two weeks after the Supreme Court imposed a blanket ban on a social science textbook with a controversial chapter on the judiciary.

What did NCERT say in apology?

In the apology, NCERT stated that Class 8 social science textbook, "Exploring Society: India and Beyond (Part II)," has been completely withdrawn. 

"The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has recently published a social science textbook 'Exploring Society: India and Beyond' Grade 8 (Part-II) which contained Chapter IV titled 'The Role of Judiciary in our Society'," the statement read. 

While sharing the news of withdrawing the book, NCERT wrote, "The Director and Members of NCERT hereby tender an unconditional and unqualified apology for the said Chapter IV. The entire book has been withdrawn and is not available,"

"We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused and appreciate the understanding of all stakeholders. NCERT remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of accuracy, sensitivity, and responsibility in educational content," NCERT added.

What is the issue?

The development comes after a chapter in NCERT's textbook for Class 8 triggered a controversy and drew strong statements from the Supreme Court. The chapter had a section on "corruption in the judiciary". 

What did Supreme Court say?

The Supreme Court imposed a blanket ban on the book and ordered the seizure of all physical copies and a takedown of digital versions. 

During the hearing, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said, "I will not allow anyone on earth to taint the integrity of the institution and defame the institution. At any cost, I will not permit it. Whosoever high it may be, the law will take its course. I know how to deal with it."

"No one will be allowed to go scot-free. It is my duty as the head of the institution to find out who is responsible; heads must roll," the Chief Justice of India said.