NCERT Withdraws Class 8 Social Science Book After Judiciary Corruption Controversy

New Delhi | February 25, 2026: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has pulled its new Class 8 Social Science textbook from sale following objections over a section highlighting “corruption in the judiciary.” The Education Ministry confirmed the removal, saying the book was taken off the shelves on Tuesday.

The controversy arose from a chapter titled “The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society,” which outlined challenges faced by the judicial system, including allegations of corruption and a “massive backlog” attributed to limited judges, complex legal procedures, and inadequate infrastructure.

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant reportedly objected strongly to the section, stating that he “will not allow anyone to defame the institution.” Following his remarks, the publication division at NCERT’s Delhi campus confirmed that the textbook, available for sale on Monday, was no longer on display.

The incident has sparked debate over curriculum content, freedom to critique institutions, and the sensitivity of educational material concerning governance and the judiciary.