Corruption, case backlog, judge shortage: NCERT class 8 book outlines judiciary’s key challenges
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A newly introduced NCERT social science textbook for class 8 has shed light on significant challenges facing India’s judicial system, including corruption, a massive backlog of cases, and a shortage of judges. The revised chapter, titled “The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society,” goes beyond traditional topics like court structure and access to justice, addressing systemic issues that hinder the judiciary’s effectiveness.
One major issue highlighted is corruption within the judicial system, which disproportionately affects marginalized groups, particularly the poor and disadvantaged. The textbook notes that corruption undermines public trust in the judiciary, making it harder for vulnerable communities to access justice. However, efforts are being made at both state and national levels to enhance transparency and accountability through technology and stronger anti-corruption measures.
The scale of pending cases is another critical challenge. According to the textbook, approximately 81,000 cases are pending in the Supreme Court, while high courts have around 62.40 lakh (6.24 million) pending cases. District and subordinate courts face an even larger burden, with about 4.70 crore (47 million) cases awaiting resolution. This backlog severely impacts the efficiency of India’s judicial system.
Despite these challenges, the textbook also highlights existing mechanisms to ensure accountability within the judiciary. The Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) is cited as a formal channel for filing complaints, with over 1,600 complaints submitted between 2017 and 2021. Additionally, former Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai has emphasized the importance of swift action to address misconduct and corruption, stating that transparency and accountability are essential for rebuilding public trust in the judiciary.
This discussion is particularly relevant for global audiences interested in governance and democracy. As a key pillar of Indian democracy, the judiciary’s challenges and efforts to improve transparency and efficiency reflect broader concerns about rule of law and access to justice in developing nations. The inclusion of these topics in an NCERT textbook underscores the importance of fostering awareness and understanding of systemic issues among younger generations.
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026