Graft in judiciary, cases backlog in NCERT book
Times of India
by TNNFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The latest NCERT social science textbook for Class 8 now addresses critical challenges facing India’s judicial system, including corruption, case backlogs, and judge shortages. The revised chapter, titled “The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society,” highlights how these issues impact public trust in courts and access to justice, particularly for marginalized communities. It also emphasizes ongoing efforts to enhance transparency and accountability through technology and anti-corruption measures.
The textbook reveals staggering numbers: over 81,000 pending cases in the Supreme Court, 62.4 lakh (62.4 million) in high courts, and 4.7 crore (47 million) in district and subordinate courts. These backlogs are attributed to factors like a lack of judges, complex legal procedures, and inadequate infrastructure. The chapter also outlines internal accountability mechanisms, such as the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), which received over 1,600 complaints between 2017 and 2021.
Quoting former Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, the textbook underscores that corruption and misconduct in the judiciary undermine public confidence. However, it also notes that rebuilding trust lies in swift, transparent actions to address these issues. The inclusion of such topics in school textbooks reflects a broader push to educate students about the challenges facing India’s judicial system and the importance of transparency and accountability in upholding justice.
This update aligns with global efforts to promote understanding of judicial systems and their role in society. By addressing corruption and inefficiencies head-on, the revised curriculum not only prepares students for citizenship but also contributes to broader societal conversations about reforming public institutions. The inclusion of such critical issues in school education highlights India’s commitment to fostering awareness and encouraging young people to engage with systemic challenges.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026