Education Policy
'Why introduce a new language in Class 9?' Supreme Court questions Centre's policy
New Delhi/IBNS: The Supreme Court on Thursday expressed concern over the introduction of a third language in Class 9, observing that adding a new subject just before board examinations could place an unnecessary burden on students, media reports said.
The observation came while a bench led by Justice B.V. Nagarathna was hearing the Tamil Nadu government's appeal against a Madras High Court order directing the state to facilitate the establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs) in every district.
'Class 9 Is Already Stressful': Supreme Court
During the hearing, Justice Nagarathna questioned the timing of introducing a third language at the secondary school level.
"No, that is very bad. Ninth standard is stressful. Why do you introduce a new language in 9th? You introduce it in 6th," the judge observed, as quoted by NDTV.
The court also urged the Centre to refrain from introducing a third language from Class 9, citing the academic pressure faced by students.
Tamil Nadu Reiterates Opposition to Three-Language Policy
Tamil Nadu, which has consistently opposed the establishment of JNVs, argued that its objection stems primarily from the three-language policy followed by these schools.
Representing the state, counsel submitted that the government has reservations over the implementation of the policy.
The bench, however, clarified that the policy does not mandate Hindi as the third language.
"The State language has to be taught, English has to be taught, and any third language. It doesn't say Hindi," Justice Nagarathna said, as quoted by NDTV.
Debate Over Language Choice
Appearing for the respondent, Advocate G. Priyadarshini argued that the National Education Policy (NEP) clearly states that no language should be imposed.
Responding to the submission, Justice Nagarathna remarked, "You don't want Hindi, but if it's Sanskrit, what is the issue?", according to the broadcaster.
Centre, Tamil Nadu Asked to Continue Dialogue
The court also advised the Tamil Nadu government not to reject every policy merely because it originates from the Union government, while urging both sides to continue discussions on the issue.
The bench, also comprising Justice R. Mahadevan, noted that talks between the Centre and the Tamil Nadu government regarding the establishment of JNVs are already underway and, therefore, judicial intervention is not required at this stage.
Separate Challenge to CBSE's Three-Language Policy Pending
Meanwhile, the CBSE's three-language policy has been challenged separately before the Supreme Court.
A bench headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant is scheduled to hear the plea in the coming days.
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