Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has ordered an inquiry into the conduct of National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) officials after the council allegedly failed to defend its decision to blacklist a paper supplier before the Delhi High Court, sources said.
According to sources, the minister has also directed that responsibility be fixed on officials who failed to take the necessary legal steps during the court proceedings. He has sought strict action against those found accountable for the alleged lapse.
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The case pertains to Bafna Global Venture Private Limited, which approached the Delhi High Court on June 24 challenging an NCERT order issued on June 22. The order barred the company from participating in the council’s procurement process for a period of two years.
The company contested the blacklisting decision, prompting judicial scrutiny of the matter. During the proceedings, questions reportedly arose over NCERT’s handling of the case and its inability to effectively defend its own decision before the court.
Sources said the Education Ministry viewed the matter seriously, particularly the alleged failure of officials to adequately represent the council’s position during the legal process. The inquiry is expected to examine whether due procedure was followed and identify any lapses in legal coordination or administrative oversight.
Officials responsible for handling the litigation may be asked to explain why appropriate legal measures were not taken in time. The investigation is also expected to determine whether internal protocols governing legal matters were ignored.
The outcome of the inquiry could lead to disciplinary action against officials found responsible. The Education Ministry has emphasised the need for accountability in cases involving public institutions, especially where legal proceedings have implications for government procurement and administrative credibility.
The NCERT is yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
