The Supreme Court has launched a blistering counter-attack against a "calculated conspiracy" to defame the legal system, imposing a total, nationwide ban on a Class 8 NCERT textbook that featured a chapter on judicial corruption. On Thursday, the apex court ordered the immediate seizure of all physical copies and the removal of the content from every digital platform, warning that any defiance from the Centre or state authorities would be met with "serious action."
Visible fury marked the proceedings as a bench led by Chief Justice Surya Kant issued show-cause notices to the Director of the NCERT and the School Education Secretary. The bench demanded an explanation as to why those responsible for the curriculum should not face prosecution. Chief Justice Kant described the move as a deliberate attempt to demean the dignity of the courts, stating that such misconduct falls squarely under the definition of criminal contempt. "Heads must roll," remarked the CJI. He, further, added that as the head of the institution, it was his duty to identify the culprits behind what he termed a "deep-rooted, well-planned conspiracy."
The court’s ire was further stoked by a communication from the NCERT on Wednesday, which the judges noted contained "not a single word of apology" and instead appeared to justify the controversial content. While Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stepped in to offer an unconditional and unqualified apology on behalf of the Ministry of Education, the court remained firm on its demand for a "deeper probe" into how the chapter was approved.
Insisting that such "unchecked" narratives could erode public faith in the rule of law, the bench has scheduled a follow-up hearing for March 11 to ensure that the purge of the material is complete.
Also read: Class 8 textbook mentions judicial corruption: SC flags concern
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