The Supreme Court on Thursday (February 26) banned the circulation and production of an NCERT Class 8 Social Sciences textbook containing references to “corruption in the judiciary.” The order applies nationwide, including schools in Guwahati and across Assam that follow the NCERT curriculum.
A three-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant imposed a blanket ban on further publication and digital circulation of the textbook titled Exploring Society: India and Beyond, Vol II. The Court also warned that any attempt to bypass the order would invite strict action.
The Supreme Court has banned the NCERT Class 8 Social Sciences textbook Exploring Society: India and Beyond, Vol II, over references to “corruption in the judiciary.” The order stops its publication and digital circulation nationwide, including in Guwahati schools. The Court also issued contempt notices to education authorities.
Impact on Guwahati and Assam Schools
Many government and private schools in Guwahati follow the NCERT curriculum, particularly those affiliated with CBSE. The Court’s order means that the concerned textbook cannot be circulated, sold, or accessed digitally in the city.
Schools are expected to await further guidance from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and the Department of School Education regarding replacement material or revised editions.
Supreme Court’s Observations
The bench directed that any attempt to circulate the book, including through electronic distribution or altered titles, would be treated as a wilful breach of its directions.
Chief Justice Surya Kant stated in court that a deeper probe was required to identify those responsible for the inclusion of the material. Heads must roll! We will not close the case,” he said during the hearing.
The Court issued notice under the Contempt of Courts Act to the Department of School Education and NCERT Director Dr. Dinesh Prasad Saklani, seeking explanations.
Centre’s Response in Court
Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the bench that the government had acted promptly after the issue surfaced.
He stated that two individuals associated with the chapter would not be involved in future ministry-related work. The government indicated that corrective measures had already been initiated.
NCERT Apology
In a statement, NCERT described the inclusion of the material as “purely unintentional” and expressed regret.
The council said the objective of the revised textbooks is to strengthen constitutional literacy, institutional respect, and informed democratic understanding among students.
What Happens Next for Students in Guwahati?
Schools in Guwahati are likely to suspend use of the textbook until official directions are issued.
Education authorities may release clarification on syllabus adjustments, replacement chapters or revised editions in the coming days. Parents and students are advised to follow updates from their respective schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Guwahati schools stop using the banned NCERT book?
Yes. Since many schools in Guwahati follow NCERT and CBSE guidelines, the Supreme Court’s nationwide ban means the textbook cannot be circulated or used.
What action has the Supreme Court taken?
The Court has banned the publication and digital circulation of the book and issued contempt notices to the education department and NCERT officials.