The Supreme Court on Thursday sharply criticised the Union government over a chapter on “corruption in the judiciary” included in an NCERT Social Science textbook for Class VIII students, questioning how such content was allowed to be published.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the court that those responsible for the content would no longer be associated with the textbook. However, Chief Justice of India Surya Kant made it clear that merely removing individuals or offering apologies would not be enough.
‘Can’t Let Officials Off With Just an Apology’
The Chief Justice said the issue could not be brushed aside simply by stating that the content would be withdrawn. “We cannot allow officials to get away with just an apology. Saying that it is being removed is not sufficient. The book has already reached the market. I have also seen a copy,” he remarked.
Mehta conceded that the content was indefensible. “It cannot be defended. It is wrong. We will ensure that no department commits such a mistake in the future,” he told the court, adding that only 32 copies of the book had been printed and that children should be taught positive values.
‘A Thought-Out, Planned Step,’ Says CJI
The Chief Justice described the inclusion of the content as a “well-thought-out and planned step,” stressing that the book would be read not only by children but also by teachers and parents.
He further asserted that the court would not close the hearing at this stage. “I am not going to shut this hearing. We need to find out who all are behind this,” he said, adding that the matter would continue until the court is fully satisfied.
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