The controversy surrounding the NCERT's new textbook has ignited a significant debate in India, particularly focusing on a chapter that discusses the judiciary and its perceived corruption. This chapter, intended for the eighth grade, portrays the judiciary in a negative light, highlighting issues such as pending cases and alleged corruption without providing a balanced perspective. It has sparked an uproar since its release for the 2026-27 academic session, with critics arguing that the information is biased and detrimental to the image of the justice system. Unlike previous controversies, the government has not defended NCERT this time, indicating a shift in its response to educational content criticism.

Prominent senior lawyers, Kapil Sibal and Abhishek Manu Singhvi, have raised concerns about this chapter directly with Chief Justice Justice Suryakant, who acknowledged receiving multiple complaints regarding the matter. The Chief Justice assured that he is aware of the issues presented within the chapter and declared that he would take cognizance of the complaints to ensure accountability should any wrongdoing be identified. This indicates a serious judicial interest in the content of educational materials and the implications it carries for public perception of law and governance.

The reactions to the textbook suggest a broader discourse about how history and critical social topics are represented in educational curricula. The discontent reflects public trust in institutions and raises essential questions about how future generations will perceive the judiciary based on potentially skewed educational narratives. The Prime Minister's reported anger upon learning of the chapter further complicates the situation and highlights the political ramifications of educational content in India’s liberal democracy.