SC seeks Centre, CBSE, NCERT reply on challenge to mandatory 3-language policy for Classes 6 to 9

The Supreme Court on Tuesday issued notice to the Central government, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), and the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) on a petition challenging the CBSE circular mandating the study of three languages, including two Indian languages, for students from Classes 6 to 9.

Seeking response from the Central government, CBSE and NCERT, a Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi, indicated that the logistical aspects of implementing the policy would require closer scrutiny. “Let us have a comprehensive reply,” the Chief Justice observed, adding that there would be “logistical issues” in implementation.

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Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the petitioner parents and teachers, argued that the sudden introduction of the policy would disrupt existing language combinations followed by students across the country. He submitted that students presently studying combinations such as Tamil, English and French would now be compelled to take an additional Indian language, and further pointed out those students would have to pass the additional language for final certification.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal raised constitutional concerns relating to federalism and individual choice, contending that language was essentially a matter of choice.

Justice Bagchi, however, clarified that the Court was presently not examining the federal issue, observing that the immediate concerns related to practical implementation, including the availability of teachers and textbooks.

Appearing for the CBSE, Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati said the Board was prepared to respond to the petition and assured the Court that there was “no question of making it hard for the students.”

She added that the commencement of classes would remain subject to the orders of the Court.

Justice Bagchi suggested that a status report be filed indicating the preparedness regarding infrastructure and logistics.

During the hearing, Chief Justice Kant observed that learning multiple languages contributed towards strengthening the federal structure. He said the matter would be heard on priority after the reopening of the Court following summer vacation.

“In the opening week, we will just hear this case first on one day and decide it. When you learn more languages, it strengthens federal structure …,” the Chief Justice observed.

The petition challenges the CBSE’s May 15 circular, issued in line with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023. Under the revised framework, students entering Classes 6 to 9 from July 2026 would be required to study three languages, with at least two being Indian languages.

The petitioners — comprising parents and teachers from New Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida and Chennai — have contended that the policy imposes an additional academic burden, disrupts preparation for board examinations and lacks adequate infrastructure, including trained teachers and textbooks.