Centre forms expert panel of KK Venugopal, Former SC Judges Indu Malhotra & Aniruddha Bose to Rewrite NCERT Judiciary Chapter

The Supreme Court has closed its suo motu proceedings over the controversial NCERT Class 8 textbook chapter on the judiciary after the Centre informed it of a high-powered committee to redraft the content. The move signals judicial insistence on expert-led academic material, while also sending a strong message on accountability in public discourse around institutions.

The controversy stemmed from a chapter in an NCERT textbook that referred to “corruption in the judiciary,” triggering concerns over its content and authorship. The issue reached the top court, prompting scrutiny over how such material was approved. The Court had earlier halted the book’s circulation and sought details about those responsible for drafting the chapter. It also expressed dissatisfaction with the manner in which revisions were attempted, noting a lack of transparency regarding expert involvement.

Amid this, the Centre stepped in, informing the Court that a committee comprising former Supreme Court judges Indu Malhotra and Aniruddha Bose, as well as former Attorney General KK Venugopal would undertake a fresh redrafting exercise in consultation with appropriate institutions.

Taking note of the Centre’s assurance, the Court accepted the formation of the expert panel as a corrective step but did not shy away from strong remarks on the handling of the issue. It had earlier termed the response of authorities as “disturbing” due to the absence of clarity on expert consultation.

The Bench also issued a stern warning against reckless commentary, observing that “some elements in so called social media have acted irresponsibly… we will not spare them.” With the committee now in place and corrective measures underway, the Court disposed of the proceedings.