New Delhi, Feb 26 : The Supreme Court on Thursday ordered an immediate ban on a Class 8 NCERT textbook carrying a chapter related to alleged corruption in the judiciary, directing seizure of all printed copies and removal of its digital versions from circulation.
As per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, A bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant directed the Centre and all state authorities to ensure strict compliance with its directions without delay, warning that any violation would invite “serious action.” The court also issued show-cause notices to the NCERT Director and the School Education Secretary, asking them to explain why action should not be initiated against those responsible for the publication.
Observing that the contents appeared to be a deliberate attempt to undermine the dignity of the judiciary, the bench remarked that such conduct, having a lasting impact on the institution, may fall within the ambit of criminal contempt. “We would like to have a deeper probe,” the bench said, adding that if such actions go unchecked, they could erode public confidence in the justice delivery system.
The Chief Justice stated that it was his responsibility as head of the institution to identify accountability. “No one will be allowed to go scot-free. Heads must roll,” he remarked, terming the episode as a possible well-planned attempt to defame the judiciary.
Taking strong exception to a communication issued by NCERT a day earlier, the court noted that it contained no apology and instead sought to justify the content. At the outset, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta tendered an unconditional and unqualified apology on behalf of the Ministry of Education.
The matter has been posted for further hearing on March 11. (KNC)
