The Supreme Court has expressed serious displeasure over the content related to corruption in the judiciary in the NCERT Class 8 Social Science book. Chief Justice Justice Surya Kant clearly said that the court cannot allow anyone to tarnish the image of the judiciary. He indicated that the court can take suo motu action in this matter. This matter is related to the reputation of the judicial system of the country.
The matter arose when senior lawyers Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi raised the issue before the Chief Justice. He said that teaching such material to school children is worrying. On this the Chief Justice said that he was already aware of this matter and had received many calls and messages. He said that this seems to be a well-planned attempt to defame the institute.
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What did the court say?
The Chief Justice said in clear words that he will not allow the judiciary to be defamed. He said that the law will take its course and if necessary, the court will take suo motu cognizance. The court indicated that appropriate steps would be taken on this subject. Although he refrained from commenting in detail, he said that the matter is serious and will not be taken lightly.
What content is the dispute about?
The controversy is over a section added to the NCERT’s Class 8 Social Science book. This section covers the discussion related to corruption in the judiciary. Questions have been raised regarding this subject matter whether it is appropriate to present it in this manner. The Supreme Court has taken suo motu cognizance of this and has considered it a matter related to institutional dignity.
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What were the concerns of senior lawyers?
Kapil Sibal urged the court to take suo motu cognizance of this matter. He said that what children read remains in their minds. If a negative message is sent about the judiciary, it will affect the credibility of the institution. Abhishek Manu Singhvi also expressed concern over this and said that such content should be done in a balanced and responsible manner.
The Supreme Court has indicated that appropriate action will be taken in the matter. The court said that it is necessary to maintain the dignity of the judiciary. It is a matter of balance between educational content and institutional respect. Now the focus is on what further guidelines the court gives and whether NCERT will have to make any amendments.
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