The Supreme Court has issued a notice to the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) regarding a new set of petitions challenging its revised three-language policy. The policy requires the study of two Indian languages from Class 6 onwards. The court sought a response from CBSE within two weeks.
The petitions contest the CBSE’s Secondary School Curriculum for Classes IX-X in 2026-27, along with circulars from April 9 and May 4. They argue that mandating the study of two Indian languages from Class 6 onwards in CBSE-affiliated schools goes against students’ academic choices and fundamental rights.
Represented by senior advocate Anand Grover, the petitioners claim that the policy lacks legal authority and is unconstitutional. They highlight that the curriculum has been enforced without proper legal backing.
The petitioners further argue that the sudden implementation of the revised curriculum, which replaced foreign languages with Sanskrit, has caused significant stress and uncertainty among students and parents.
The plea also questions the feasibility of implementing the new language framework without adequate textbooks and teaching materials. It emphasizes the need for proper syllabi and teaching resources for effective implementation.
The petitioners challenge the CBSE circulars on grounds of violating the fundamental right to freedom of speech and expression. They argue that the policy unfairly classifies English as a non-native language and limits students’ choices between English and a foreign language.
