‘Purely Unintentional’: NCERT Apologises for ‘Error of Judgement’ in New Class 8 Book on Judiciary

In a swift response to growing concerns, the National Council of Educational Research and Training has halted the distribution of its newly launched Class 8 Social Science textbook after objections were raised over content related to the judiciary.

NCERT Halts Distribution of New Textbook

The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has stopped further sales and circulation of its Class 8 Social Science textbook Exploring Society: India and Beyond, Vol II, which was released on February 24, 2026.

The action follows objections to Chapter 4, titled “The Role of Judiciary in Our Society” (pages 125–142), which reportedly contained inappropriate references and errors of judgment, including mentions of corruption within the judiciary.

Ministry Directs Immediate Action

The Ministry of Education through its Department of School Education and Literacy directed NCERT to immediately suspend distribution of the book until further orders.

The matter escalated to the Supreme Court of India, where Chief Justice Suryakant took suo motu cognisance of the issue. A hearing on the matter has been scheduled.

NCERT Expresses Regret

In an official statement, NCERT described the lapse as “purely unintentional” and termed it an “error of judgement.”

“The aforesaid error is purely unintentional and NCERT regrets the inclusion of inappropriate material in the said chapter,” the statement read.

The council emphasized that it holds the judiciary in the “highest esteem” as the upholder of the Indian Constitution and protector of Fundamental Rights. It clarified that there was no intention to undermine any constitutional institution.

Chapter to Be Rewritten

To address the issue, NCERT has announced that the chapter will be rewritten in consultation with relevant authorities. The revised edition of the textbook will be made available to students at the beginning of the 2026–27 academic session.

Officials stated that the corrective step reflects NCERT’s commitment to ensuring that educational content remains accurate, balanced, and respectful of democratic institutions.

Commitment to Quality Education

The prompt withdrawal of the textbook highlights NCERT’s stated dedication to maintaining high academic standards and safeguarding the credibility of school education materials.

With revisions underway, authorities aim to restore confidence among students, educators, and stakeholders while reinforcing the importance of constitutional values in academic curricula.