Don't introduce third language in Class 9: SC on CBSE's three-language policy

Summary

The Supreme Court on Thursday questioned the introduction of a third language at the Class 9 level under the CBSE curriculum, with Justice B V Nagarathna observing that it would place unnecessary pressure on students just before their board examinations. The Court also advised Tamil Nadu not to oppose the Centre's education policy merely because it originated from the Union government, while noting that discussions over Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) in the state are still underway. Hearing Tamil Nadu's appeal against a Madras High Court order directing the state to facilitate the establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas in every district, Justice Nagarathna questioned why a new language should be introduced only in Class 9. Calling the move "very bad", Justice Nagarathna observed that students already face significant academic pressure as they prepare for Class 10 board exams. The judge urged the Union government to reconsider the timing of the policy, saying students should begin learning a third language much earlier. "Union of India, please don't have a third language in 9th standard. I'm recalling my experience from 1976." During the hearing, Justice Nagarathna observed that the National Education Policy does not mandate Hindi as the third language. The Bench also advised the Tamil Nadu government not to oppose the Centre's education policy solely because it was framed by the Union government. Tamil Nadu has consistently opposed JNVs, citing concerns over the three-language policy followed by the schools. The Supreme Court adjourned the matter for further hearing on August 11.