Three academicians Prof Michel Danino, Suparna Diwakar and Alok Prasanna Kumar have approached the Supreme Court of India seeking a hearing over their association with an NCERT Class 8 social science chapter on “corruption in judiciary.” The plea follows earlier observations by the court that led to directions restricting their involvement in publicly funded academic projects.
The scholars argue that these remarks have prejudiced their professional standing and that they were not given an opportunity to present their case. The controversy began in February 2026 when the court took note of the chapter, criticised its content and led to the withdrawal of the textbook by the National Council of Educational Research and Training. The matter is currently awaiting further hearing.
Academicians Seek Opportunity To Be Heard
In their application before the Supreme Court, the three academicians have requested a formal hearing to clarify their role in the development of the chapter. They have stated that the work was part of a broader, collaborative academic process and not an individual effort. Represented by senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, they have argued that the court’s earlier observations have adversely affected their credibility and future academic engagements.
The plea also highlights that discussions around institutional challenges form part of a wider educational approach aimed at encouraging critical thinking among students. The academicians have maintained that they were acting within established academic frameworks and should be allowed to present their position before any conclusions are drawn about their intent or competence.
Row Over Textbook Content And Court’s Observations
The issue dates back to February 2026, when the Supreme Court took suo motu cognisance of content in an NCERT Class 8 social science textbook that referred to corruption and systemic concerns within the judiciary. The court expressed serious concern over the inclusion and framing of the topic for school students, observing that such content could impact public confidence in judicial institutions. It subsequently directed the withdrawal of the textbook and indicated that those involved in its preparation should not be associated with publicly funded academic work until further consideration.
Following the court’s observations, NCERT withdrew the textbook and issued an apology, stating that the content would be reviewed. The Union government also initiated steps towards setting up an expert committee to examine the material and recommend appropriate revisions, reflecting an attempt to balance educational objectives with institutional sensitivity.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This development highlights the delicate balance between academic freedom and institutional respect. While the judiciary remains a cornerstone of democracy, education must also create space for thoughtful engagement with complex issues, including institutional accountability. At the same time, the framing of such topics especially for young learners, requires nuance, clarity and responsibility.
The academicians’ plea underscores the importance of due process and the need to ensure that individuals are heard before facing professional consequences. In a society that values both trust in institutions and the freedom to question them, how can education responsibly encourage critical thinking without crossing into perceived mistrust?
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Three academicians earlier barred by the Supreme Court from participating in public academic projects have approached the court, seeking a hearing over their role in drafting an NCERT Class 8 textbook chapter on “corruption in judiciary.” The applicants argue that the court’s… pic.twitter.com/Rp07yGbKnz
— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) April 7, 2026
