The Supreme Court of India has directed all States and Union Territories, including Tripura, to immediately seize and withdraw a Class 8 Social Science textbook published by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).
The Court passed the order on February 26 while hearing a suo motu writ petition titled In Re: Social Science Textbook for Grade 8 (Part-2) and Ancillary Issues. It instructed authorities to remove all copies of the book “Exploring Society, India and Beyond” from circulation. This includes both printed and digital versions.
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Immediate Seizure and Ban
The Court directed the Union Government, NCERT, and State Education Departments to act without delay. They must remove the textbook from schools, storage facilities, bookstores, and online platforms. In addition, the Court banned further printing or digital sharing of the book.
Moreover, the Court warned that republishing the same content under a different title would amount to willful disobedience. It placed personal responsibility on the Director of NCERT and principals of concerned schools. They must seal the seized copies and stop teaching from the book.
Tripura Begins Compliance Process
Following the order, Shuvodeep Roy, Advocate-on-Record and Standing Counsel for the Government of Tripura, informed the State’s School Education Department on February 27. He addressed the communication to Dr. Milind Dharmrao Ramkete, IAS, Secretary of the Education (School) Department.
Subsequently, Tripura authorities began steps to implement the Court’s directions. Officials are identifying institutions where the textbook may be in use. They are also coordinating with school heads to ensure prompt action.
Compliance Reports Mandatory
The Supreme Court has asked all Principal Secretaries of Education Departments to submit compliance affidavits within two weeks. These reports must clearly state the steps taken to seize and withdraw the book.
Accordingly, Tripura must complete its action and submit supporting documents by March 8. Thereafter, the State will file its affidavit before the next hearing on March 11, 2026.
Matter Under Consideration
The issue remains under active consideration of the apex court. Although the Court has not detailed the specific concerns publicly, it has stressed strict and time-bound compliance.
Meanwhile, education departments across the country have started implementing the directive. The order has drawn attention from schools, administrators, and publishers alike.
As the deadline approaches, States are working to ensure full compliance. Further developments are expected during the next hearing before the Supreme Court.