In a landmark verdict aimed at upholding the integrity of the Indian judicial system, the Supreme Court has ordered both the Central and State governments to sever all professional ties with NCERT textbook authors who portrayed the judiciary as “corrupt.” Expressing deep displeasure, the apex court observed that feeding students with biased and unsubstantiated views about the third pillar of democracy is not only dangerous but a direct assault on the Constitution.

The controversy erupted over certain passages in an NCERT Political Science textbook that allegedly cast aspersions on the transparency and functioning of the courts. Taking suo motu cognizance or acting on a petition, the bench stated that authors responsible for such “misleading” content must be de-paneled immediately. The court emphasized that while healthy criticism is welcome in a democracy, labeling a constitutional institution as corrupt without evidence in school curriculum is unacceptable.

The Supreme Court directed the government to ensure that these individuals are not involved in any future academic or governmental advisory roles. Following the order, the Ministry of Education has initiated a comprehensive review of all social science textbooks to identify and rectify similar derogatory content. This ruling sets a firm precedent that academic freedom cannot be used as a shield to undermine the sanctity of the Indian judiciary. Educational boards across states have also been alerted to strictly monitor the vetting process for all upcoming editions of school books.