Odisha Crime Branch Investigates Textbook Irregularities, Former SCERT Director Arrested
The Odisha Crime Branch has registered a case and launched an investigation into irregularities in the preparation, approval, and publication of school textbooks for Classes I to VIII. The probe follows errors found in the textbooks, including factual, scientific, geographical, translation, and pictorial mistakes. Former SCERT Director Manoj Padhi, responsible for overseeing the textbook development under NEP-2020, was arrested for allegedly approving manuscripts without proper verification, causing an estimated loss of ₹175 crore. The investigation is supervised by senior Crime Branch officials following directives from the state Chief Minister.
First-hand measurement across 3 sources
We measured how 3 outlets covered this story. Coverage leans balanced overall (Left 33%, Centre 57%, Right 10%). Overall sentiment is negative (28/100). Lens Score 63/100 — moderate public interest.
Outlets analysed (first-hand measurement by TBN's Bias Engine):
- indianexpress— balanced framing, negative sentiment
- timesnow— balanced framing, negative sentiment
- freepressjournal— balanced framing, neutral sentiment
AI Analysis
The articles primarily present official actions and statements from Odisha government authorities and the Crime Branch, focusing on procedural and administrative aspects of the textbook irregularities. The coverage includes perspectives from government officials, law enforcement, and the accused without editorializing. There is no evident partisan framing, with emphasis on factual reporting of the investigation and arrests.
The tone across the articles is neutral and factual, reporting on the investigation and arrest without emotive language. While the situation involves allegations of misconduct and financial loss, the coverage maintains an objective stance, focusing on official responses and procedural developments rather than expressing judgment or speculation.
How 3 sources covered this story
Each source's own headline, political lean, and sentiment — so you can see framing differences at a glance.