Supreme Court questions CBSE’s three-language policy implementation

The Supreme Court on Thursday questioned the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) over the sudden implementation of its three-language policy, expressing concern about the lack of resources and the burden on students. The court gave CBSE 10 days to respond and will hear the matter again after that. Petitioners argued that millions of students are being forced to study a new language without adequate books, teachers, or preparation, with examinations approaching.

The Centre defended the policy, with Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati assuring the court that all necessary materials and arrangements were in place. The court clarified it is not opposed to the policy itself, but stressed that student interests must be considered. Chief Justice Surya Kant remarked that learning two Indian languages could promote national unity, but a lawyer noted that Delhi schools teach Sanskrit as the second language instead of languages like Tamil or Telugu.

Petitioners also questioned the classification of English as a foreign language, pointing out it has official status in several states. The Supreme Court refused to cancel or stay the policy, but asked the Centre and CBSE to reconsider aspects such as granting a one-time exemption to current Class 6 students, ensuring availability of qualified teachers and books, and exploring online classes where teachers are unavailable.