The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has expressed regret over the inclusion of a textbook chapter that referred to judicial corruption, and has confirmed that the content will be rewritten. The decision comes after the Supreme Court of India expressed strong displeasure over the portrayal of the judiciary in the book.
Supreme Court Flags Concerns Over NCERT Textbook Content
The development followed observations by the apex court, which raised concerns about the appropriateness, tone, and implications of the chapter. The court reportedly questioned whether such content, presented without sufficient context, could undermine public trust in constitutional institutions, particularly among school students. The Supreme Court’s intervention prompted NCERT to review the material and assess its alignment with educational objectives and constitutional values.
NCERT Acknowledges Lapse, Confirms Revision
Responding to the concerns, NCERT stated that it regrets publishing the chapter in its existing form and acknowledged the need for corrective action. The council confirmed that the chapter would be rewritten, ensuring that the revised content is academically balanced, age-appropriate, and consistent with the broader goals of school education. NCERT emphasized that textbooks must promote critical thinking while also maintaining institutional respect and factual accuracy. The revision process will involve academic review and expert consultation before the updated content is reintroduced.
NCERT Focus on Responsible Curriculum Development
The episode has renewed attention on how sensitive constitutional topics are handled in school curricula. Education experts have noted that while it is important for students to understand democratic institutions and their challenges, such discussions must be framed carefully to avoid misinterpretation. NCERT reiterated that its role is to design learning material that supports constitutional literacy, civic awareness, and ethical understanding, without sensationalism or unintended messaging.
Way Forward for NCERT Textbook Revisions
The council is expected to issue further clarification on the revised chapter once the rewriting process is completed. Updated textbooks will be aligned with national curriculum standards and distributed accordingly in upcoming academic cycles. The move underscores NCERT’s commitment to academic responsibility and institutional accountability, while reinforcing the importance of judicial sensitivity in educational content.