The Union Ministry of Education has directed the Ministries of Information and Broadcasting and Electronics and Information Technology to immediately halt the digital circulation of a controversial NCERT Class 8 social science textbook after the Supreme Court imposed a blanket ban on the publication. Officials said the move aims to ensure that the book is removed not only from physical distribution channels but also from online platforms and electronic media following the court’s order.
In its communication, the Education Ministry stated that while NCERT and related agencies were already working to withdraw printed copies and stop further reprinting, action was also required to prevent continued dissemination through digital platforms. The responsibility for blocking online access and electronic circulation was assigned to the competent authorities in MeitY and the Information and Broadcasting Ministry to ensure full compliance with the judicial directive.
The Supreme Court had earlier ordered a “complete blanket ban” on the textbook, citing “offending” references related to corruption in the judiciary. During the hearing, the bench made strong observations, stating that the material appeared to undermine the institution’s integrity and remarking that the judiciary was being harmed by such content. The court directed authorities to seize all existing copies, both physical and digital, and prevent further distribution.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also expressed concern over the inclusion of the disputed chapter, promising accountability and action against those responsible for drafting and approving the material. The controversy centred on a section of the book that discussed challenges faced by the judicial system, including corruption allegations, case backlogs, and shortages of judges.
Following the court’s criticism, NCERT removed the textbook from its official website and issued an apology for what it described as inappropriate content. The organisation said the chapter would be rewritten in consultation with relevant authorities. Government sources indicated that the issue had triggered strong reactions within the administration, with authorities moving swiftly to ensure compliance with the Supreme Court’s order and prevent further circulation of the material in any format.
