The Supreme Court has ordered that Class 6 students studying under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) should be exempt from the mandatory third language policy, similar to the exemptions provided for Class 7 students. This direction was issued in light of the Centre’s statement indicating reluctance to extend this exemption to Class 6 students this academic year.

During the proceedings, the Union government’s Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta, informed the court that the overwhelming majority of CBSE schools—approximately 99 per cent—had adopted the third-language policy. He added that only about 1.2 per cent of schools were reportedly affected by the mandatory requirement.

However, the Supreme Court emphasised the need for comfort for Class 6 students, akin to that available to their peers in Class 7. The directive mandates the implementation of this exemption from 1 April 2027.

Concerns Voiced Regarding Language Policy Implementation

During the court session, concerns were raised about the abrupt introduction of a new language policy for students already engaged in a specific curriculum. Chief Justice Surya Kant proposed the formation of a committee composed of senior officials to engage with the petitioner schools and assess the difficulties they might be facing.

In response, Senior Advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, representing the parents, objected to the suggestion for an additional committee, stating that a definitive resolution was necessary. He contended that students who had selected their languages and subjects since Class 4 were now being forced to switch, creating unnecessary confusion.

Both parties in the courtroom acknowledged the implications of this language transition on students’ education, highlighting that a structured approach was required to prevent disruption to their academic progress.

Challenges Highlighted by Parents and Legal Representatives

Legal representatives for the parents expressed their concerns about the sudden adjustment to the mandatory language policy. They pointed out that the availability of physical textbooks was lacking, which further complicated the situation despite the government’s assurances about accessibility.

Sankaranarayanan highlighted a specific case where students at DPS had been learning Spanish since Class 4. With the enforcement of this policy change, these students, numbering around 50 in each of the six sections, had been transitioned to learning Sanskrit instead. He raised issues regarding the classification of English as a non-native language under the new framework, questioning its categorisation when it is fundamentally central to academic and legal contexts in India.

Justice Joymalya Bagchi remarked that the court aims to prevent additional hurdles for students due to this policy change. The Solicitor General acknowledged the issue of comfort for students, emphasising a balanced approach that would not challenge their adaptability unnecessarily. The court reiterated its desire for a smooth transition and announced that the current exemption for Class 6 students would be enacted from April 1, 2027, while keeping the larger language policy issue under consideration.

Further Proceedings Scheduled by the Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has decided to monitor the situation closely and has scheduled the matter for review in six weeks. It directed that a counter-affidavit be submitted within four weeks, followed by a rejoinder within two weeks. The court’s proactive stance highlights the need to ensure that students are not adversely affected by abrupt educational policy changes.

The Supreme Court’s deliberations and decisions in this matter reflect its commitment to safeguarding students’ interests and facilitating a conducive academic environment amid evolving educational policies.

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