New Delhi, February 26: The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) released a new social science textbook for Class 8 on February 24. However, a chapter titled “The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society,” spanning pages 125 to 142, contained content deemed inappropriate. Following this revelation, the Department of School Education and Literacy, under the Ministry of Education, promptly instructed that the distribution of the book be halted until further notice. In compliance with this directive, NCERT has suspended the supply of the textbook.
Notably, several judges and senior advocates expressed strong objections to the chapter. NCERT emphasized its respect for the judiciary, viewing it as a guardian of the Constitution and the rights of the people.
According to NCERT, the errors in the chapter occurred unintentionally, with no intention to undermine the dignity of any institution. The chapter will be rewritten with input from relevant authorities. The revised textbook is expected to be available to students at the beginning of the 2026-27 academic session.
NCERT has expressed regret over this mistake and has apologized, assuring that measures will be taken to prevent such errors in the future.
In a statement released late Wednesday, NCERT confirmed the issuance of the new Class 8 social science textbook. Following the discovery of inappropriate content and errors in Chapter 4, “The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society,” distribution has been immediately suspended.
It is important to note that the judiciary has taken cognizance of this matter, with a hearing scheduled in the Supreme Court on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Department of School Education and Literacy has directed that the supply and distribution of the book be completely suspended until further notice.
NCERT has complied with the ministry’s directives and halted the distribution of the textbook. The council reiterated its utmost respect for the Indian judiciary, recognizing it as the protector of the Constitution and fundamental rights.
According to NCERT, the errors in the chapter were entirely inadvertent, with no intention to harm the dignity of any constitutional body. The council also reaffirmed that the purpose of the new textbooks is to strengthen constitutional literacy among students, foster respect for institutions, and enhance understanding of the democratic system. The chapter will be rewritten in consultation with appropriate authorities, and the revised book will be made available to students at the start of the 2026-27 academic session.
The council has expressed deep regret over this error and reiterated its commitment to institutional integrity and constitutional values.
