The Supreme Court on Tuesday modified its earlier order and recalled the adverse remarks it had made against three academics in connection with the revision of NCERT textbooks. The court observed that the remarks were passed without giving them an opportunity to be heard.
Background of the Case
In a previous hearing, the apex court had made critical observations against three academics—Professor Sujata Patel, Professor Nandini Sundar, and Professor Satish Deshpande—for their alleged role in the controversial revision of history textbooks. The court had questioned their academic integrity and objectivity.
Court’s Modification
A bench comprising Justices V. Ramasubramanian and Pankaj Mithal stated that the earlier remarks were made in the absence of the concerned academics. The court clarified that its observations were not intended to cast aspersions on their professional conduct.
- The court directed that the adverse remarks be expunged from the record.
- It emphasized that any decision on the textbook issue will be taken after hearing all stakeholders.
Reaction from Academics
The three academics had filed applications seeking the recall of the remarks. Their counsel argued that the observations were based on incomplete information and could damage their reputation. The court accepted their submissions and modified the order.
Implications
This development is seen as a significant relief for the academics, who had faced criticism following the court’s earlier observations. The case pertains to the revision of NCERT textbooks, which has been a subject of political and academic debate.
