The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) faced legal scrutiny after failing to defend its decision to blacklist Pune-based Bafna Global Venture Private Limited for delaying textbook production.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan ordered an investigation into NCERT officials for skipping a Delhi High Court hearing on June 22, which led to interim relief for the firm.The company challenged NCERT's termination of its contract, citing delays caused by hydrogen peroxide shortages linked to US-Iran tensions.The court restrained NCERT from invoking a ₹6.09 crore bank guarantee until the next hearing on July 20.NCERT is also under scrutiny for how the firm was awarded the 2026-27 Maplitho paper contract, with allegations of tender violations.The ministry emphasized a zero-tolerance approach to administrative lapses, demanding accountability for officials who failed to take legal action.The case highlights tensions between educational authorities and private suppliers, raising questions about contract management and legal compliance.