Constructive Criticism Of Judiciary Necessary Feature Of Vibrant Democracy, But It Must Be V…

This case concerns a suo motu proceeding initiated by the Supreme Court regarding a Grade 8 Social Science textbook published by NCERT, specifically Chapter 4 titled 'The Role of the Judiciary in our Society,' which the Court found undermined the dignity of the Judiciary. The matter was resolved after the Government of India recalled the book, reconstituted the curriculum committee, and produced a revised, balanced text.

The matter concerns the Union of India, NCERT, and the Department of School Education and Literacy as respondents/authorities, with the Court acting on its own motion (suo motu) following a media report. The Bench consisted of Chief Justice Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice V. Mohana.

• The Court disposed of the suo motu writ petition and closed the matter.
• The Court discharged the show-cause notices issued to the Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, and the Director, NCERT.
• The Court clarified that a statement recorded by the Solicitor General regarding the curriculum committee's decision-making process was merely a record and not an observation or order of the Court.
• The Court noted that the revised chapter, reviewed by an Expert Committee, has been circulated to students and is in classroom use.
• The Court directed that the Union of India, NCERT, and concerned authorities remain bound by assurances regarding the content and vetting of educational material relating to public institutions in future editions.

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