'We've utmost respect for judiciary': Education minister vows action in NCERT book row
Times of India
by TOI NEWS DESKFebruary 26, 2026
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Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has emphasized respect for the judiciary while pledging action against those responsible for a controversial chapter in the Class 8 NCERT textbook. The Supreme Court had banned the book, ordering its seizure and removal from digital platforms due to objectionable content on judicial corruption, case backlogs, and insufficient judges. In response, Pradhan assured accountability for those involved in drafting the chapter and reaffirmed compliance with the court’s directives.
The controversy arose after the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Surya Kant, flagged the chapter titled “The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society” as objectionable and potentially part of a conspiracy to defame the judiciary. Senior advocates Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Singhvi brought the matter to the court’s attention, prompting a suo motu case involving Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M Pancholi. The court demanded explanations from NCERT Director and School Education Secretary, warning of serious consequences if its orders were ignored.
Following the apex court’s intervention, NCERT issued an apology, withdrew the book from circulation, and halted further distribution. Out of 2.25 lakh printed copies, only 38 had been sold, which are now being retrieved. The council also announced plans to rewrite the chapter with relevant authorities to ensure compliance with judicial standards.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) supported the court’s decision, with spokesperson Sambit Patra calling the issue sensitive and praising the Indian judiciary as “independent and deserving.” Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the court that the government stands firmly behind the judiciary. This incident highlights the importance of maintaining public trust in judicial institutions while underscoring the need for accountability when such issues arise.
Globally, this case underscores the delicate balance between academic freedom and institutional respect. The handling of the NCERT textbook controversy reflects India’s commitment to upholding the integrity of its judiciary and
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/26/2026