- By Sarju Saran Tiwari
- Mon, 29 Jun 2026 01:22 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
- KAMS opposes CBSE's mandatory Kannada third language directive.
- Conflict with Karnataka's 2015 Language Learning Act cited.
- KAMS gives CBSE 15 days, threatens High Court action.
Karnataka Schools Language Policy: A major controversy has erupted among private schools in Karnataka following a directive from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) mandating Kannada as a third language in schools across the state. The Karnataka Associated Managements of Schools (KAMS) has strongly opposed this move and formally urged the CBSE to immediately halt the order pending further review and clarification.
KAMS has stated that schools in Karnataka, whether affiliated with CBSE, ICSE, or the State Board, are already complying with the 'Karnataka Language Learning Act, 2015,' which mandates the teaching of Kannada as either a first or second language in all institutions. The association argues that mandating Kannada as a third language creates a direct and unresolved conflict with existing state law, potentially leaving schools caught between two contradictory legal frameworks.
Conflict with Karnataka's 2015 Language Law
At the heart of KAMS's objection lies a fundamental legal concern. Under the Karnataka Language Learning Act, 2015, it is already mandatory for all schools in the state, regardless of their affiliated board, to teach Kannada as either a first or second language. The association argues that the new CBSE directive, which introduces Kannada as a mandatory third language, clashes awkwardly with this existing requirement.
KAMS has sought immediate clarification from the board regarding how schools where Kannada is already taught as a first or second language should implement this new order, a question left entirely unaddressed in the directive. In the absence of clear guidelines, schools face the impossible situation of having to teach the same language simultaneously across two different language slots.
Seeking Interim Relief for Existing Students:
Beyond the legal conflict, KAMS has raised a highly practical concern on behalf of students already enrolled for the current academic year. Classes have commenced, timetables have been finalized, and families have already purchased textbooks. Imposing a new mandatory language requirement mid-session would cause immense inconvenience to students, parents, and school administrations alike.
The association has formally requested that the CBSE introduce an interim policy specifically for existing students, exempting them from the directive's immediate impact while a long-term solution is worked out between the board and the state government.
KAMS Gives CBSE 15 Days; Option to Approach High Court Remains Open
KAMS has not limited its objection to mere advice. The association has set a clear deadline, giving the CBSE 15 days to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the directive and its implementation. KAMS has warned that if the board fails to respond within this timeframe, it will approach the Karnataka High Court to seek judicial intervention and a formal stay on the order.
This standoff reflects the broader tension between the policies of the central board and state-specific education laws, a conflict that, if left unresolved, could set a significant legal precedent regarding the alignment between CBSE directives and state laws across India.