The Supreme Court on Monday granted interim relief to Class 6 students facing the implementation of the CBSE’s revised three-language policy. The Court directed that Class 6 students should receive the same relaxation currently available to Class 7 students. Under the arrangement, students will continue studying the third language but will not be held back solely for failing that language assessment.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi and Justice V. Mohana was hearing petitions challenging the implementation of the CBSE’s three-language policy from the 2026-27 academic session. The revised framework requires students to study three languages, including two Indian languages.
During the hearing, the petitioners raised concerns about students who had already selected and studied a particular language for several years. It was pointed out that some students who had been studying languages such as Spanish since Class 4 were now being asked to switch to languages such as Sanskrit.
The petitioners argued that the sudden implementation of the policy was creating practical difficulties for students and schools, particularly regarding the availability of teachers and textbooks. They also submitted that the policy was originally contemplated for implementation from 2030 but was being introduced from 2026 without an adequate transition period.
The Bench expressed concern over the impact of the policy on students who are already midway through their schooling. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that the number of affected students was limited and that they would adapt to the new arrangement. Justice Joymalya Bagchi, however, observed that the Court wanted to ensure students’ comfort and avoid unnecessary difficulties.
The availability of textbooks also came under discussion. While the Centre submitted that textbooks had been made available online, the petitioners pointed out that physical copies were not available and argued that merely uploading books online would not resolve the practical problems faced by students.
The petitioners further raised concerns about the assessment of the third language, particularly in relation to Class 9 students who would later appear for Class 10 board examinations. They expressed apprehension that students could face difficulties if passing the third-language assessment became a condition for receiving the Class 10 board certificate.
Justice Bagchi observed that if any school actually withheld a student’s certificate on this ground, the Supreme Court would immediately intervene. The Bench, however, noted that the concern at this stage was based on a reasonable apprehension.
As an interim measure, the Supreme Court has now extended to Class 6 students the same relaxation available to Class 7 students. Students will continue studying the third language, but they will not be held back solely because they fail the third-language assessment.
