Parents and Students Move Supreme Court Against CBSE’s Three-Language Requirement for Class 9

New Delhi, May 22, 2026: A group of parents and students has approached the Supreme Court seeking urgent intervention against a new policy of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) that mandates the study of three languages for students entering Class 9 from July 1.

The petition was mentioned before a Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant, with senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi appearing on behalf of the petitioners. The plea challenges the implementation of the language requirement, arguing that it places an additional academic burden on students who are preparing for their Class 10 Board examinations next year.

During the proceedings, Rohatgi questioned the practicality of requiring students to begin learning an additional language at the Class 9 level. He contended that introducing a new subject at this stage could create difficulties for students already adjusting to a crucial phase of their academic journey.

The petitioners have raised concerns that the policy could disrupt existing study plans and increase pressure on students with limited time to achieve proficiency in another language before appearing for Board examinations.

Seeking immediate judicial attention, the petitioners requested that the matter be taken up on May 25. However, the Chief Justice indicated that the case would be listed before the appropriate Bench next week for consideration.

The challenge comes amid broader discussions on educational reforms and language learning in schools. While supporters of multilingual education argue that learning additional languages can enhance cognitive and cultural understanding, the petitioners maintain that the timing and implementation of the policy require reconsideration.

The Supreme Court is expected to examine the legal and educational implications of the CBSE decision once the matter is formally listed for hearing. The outcome could have a significant impact on students enrolled in CBSE-affiliated schools across the country.