The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has withdrawn a recently published Class 8 social science textbook and issued an unconditional public apology after a chapter discussing the judiciary triggered concerns.

In an official statement, NCERT confirmed that the book titled “Exploring Society: India and Beyond – Grade 8 (Part II)” contained a chapter titled “The Role of Judiciary in our Society”, which prompted objections and scrutiny.

Textbook pulled from circulation

Acknowledging the issue, the council said it regretted the publication of the chapter and extended what it described as an “unconditional and unqualified apology.”

Following internal discussions, the NCERT Director and members decided to withdraw the entire textbook from circulation, making it unavailable for distribution or classroom use.

While the council did not spell out the exact concerns related to the chapter, it stressed that the decision was taken promptly to address the issue.

“NCERT sincerely regrets the inconvenience caused and appreciates the understanding of all stakeholders,” the statement said.

Debate over portrayal of institutions

The move comes at a time when school textbooks and their treatment of constitutional institutions have come under increased scrutiny.

Education experts note that NCERT publications are widely used across India by schools affiliated with central and several state boards. As a result, the withdrawal of a textbook midway through the academic cycle could have implications for both teachers and students relying on the curriculum.

Further clarification from NCERT on revised content and curriculum arrangements for the upcoming academic session is still awaited.