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NCERT Class 8 Textbook Now Includes Chapter on Judicial Corruption

The NCERT has introduced a new section on corruption within the judiciary in its revised Class 8 Social Science textbook. The chapter details the massive backlog of cases across all court levels and outlines constitutional procedures for judicial accountability, including impeachment. It acknowledges that corruption worsens access to justice for the poor while highlighting efforts to strengthen transparency. The text quotes former Chief Justice B R Gavai on the need for swift, decisive action to rebuild public trust.

Key Points: NCERT Textbook Adds Section on Corruption in Judiciary

  • First NCERT text to cover judicial corruption
  • Details 4.7 crore pending cases in lower courts
  • Explains impeachment process for judges
  • Cites 1,600 complaints via CPGRAMS (2017-21)
2 min read

NCERT introduces 'corruption in judiciary' in new Class 8 Social Science textbook

New Class 8 Social Science book addresses judicial corruption, case backlogs, and impeachment, quoting former CJI B R Gavai.

"Transparency and accountability are democratic virtues. - B R Gavai"

By Vishu Adhana, New Delhi, February 24

For the first time, the National Council of Educational Research and Training has introduced a section on "corruption in the judiciary" in its new Class 8 Social Science textbook, marking a significant shift from earlier editions that largely focused on the structure and role of courts.

The revised chapter, titled "The Role of the Judiciary in Our Society," goes beyond explaining the hierarchy of courts and access to justice, and addresses challenges faced by the judicial system, including corruption and case backlogs.

The chapter lists the approximate number of pending cases in the Supreme Court (81,000), High Court (62,40,000), and district and Subordinate courts (4,70,00,000).

In the section on corruption, the textbook states that judges are bound by a code of conduct that governs not only their behaviour in court but also their conduct outside it. It highlights the judiciary's internal accountability mechanisms and refers to the established procedure for receiving complaints through the Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS).

According to the book, over 1,600 complaints were received through this mechanism between 2017 and 2021.

The text also explains the constitutional provision for the removal of judges in serious cases. "In cases where the allegations are serious, Parliament can take action and remove a judge by passing a motion of impeachment. Such a motion is considered only after a proper inquiry, during which the judge is given a fair opportunity to present their side of the case," it states.

At the same time, the book acknowledges public concerns. "Nevertheless, people do experience corruption at various levels of the judiciary. For the poor and the disadvantaged, this can worsen the issue of access to justice," the chapter notes.

It adds that efforts are being made at both the state and Union levels to strengthen transparency and public trust, including through the use of technology and swift action against instances of corruption.

The textbook also quotes former Chief Justice of India B R Gavai, who in July 2025 said that instances of corruption and misconduct within the judiciary have a negative impact on public confidence. "However, the path to rebuilding this trust lies in the swift, decisive and transparent action taken to address and resolve these issues... Transparency and accountability are democratic virtues," he said, as cited in the book.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally! We talk about corruption in politics all the time, but the judiciary was always presented as untouchable. Teaching kids about CPGRAMS and impeachment is great. They need to know there are systems for accountability, even if they are slow.
R
Rohit P
I appreciate the intent, but I hope the chapter is balanced. It's important to criticise where needed, but we must also teach respect for the institution. The judiciary, despite its flaws, is a pillar of our democracy. The quote from Justice Gavai strikes the right tone.
S
Sarah B
As a parent, I'm of two minds. It's good for education to be realistic, but Class 8 seems young for such a heavy topic. I hope it's taught with sensitivity and focuses on solutions (like technology for transparency) rather than just painting a bleak picture.
V
Vikram M
The numbers are mind-boggling. 62 lakh cases in High Courts? Justice delayed is justice denied. Teaching this to young students is crucial. Maybe this generation will grow up to find solutions we couldn't. The focus on how it affects the poor is especially important.
K
Karthik V
A respectful criticism: While including this topic is progressive, I hope the textbook doesn't become a tool for cynicism. It must equally emphasise the dignity of the judicial office and the thousands of honest judges working under immense pressure. Balance is key.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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