Politics · India Bureau
Supreme Court questions CBSE policy treating English as non-native language
India's apex court has directed the Central Board of Secondary Education to reconsider its three-language framework, expressing concern over the classification of English and the readiness of schools to teach Indian languages effectively.
LSN India ·
The Supreme Court has intervened in the contentious debate over language instruction in Indian schools, directing the CBSE to revisit its three-language policy and address fundamental questions about how English is categorized within the educational framework.
The court's intervention centers on the apparent contradiction in treating English—one of India's most widely used languages of instruction and communication—as a non-native language. This classification raises questions about the coherence of the board's language policy and its practical implementation across schools.
Beyond the linguistic classification issue, the Supreme Court has flagged concerns about institutional readiness to support Indian language instruction. The court specifically highlighted deficiencies in the availability of qualified teachers and adequate textbooks for Indian languages, suggesting that any policy reorientation must be accompanied by concrete measures to strengthen these foundational resources.
The three-language formula has long been a cornerstone of India's educational approach, intended to promote multilingualism and cultural integration. However, implementation challenges and policy inconsistencies have repeatedly drawn scrutiny. The Supreme Court's directive signals that the CBSE must reconcile its policy framework with ground realities before proceeding.
The board is expected to submit its revised approach, addressing both the theoretical foundations of its language policy and the practical mechanisms required for effective implementation across Indian schools.