The Supreme Court has refused to pass an interim order on a petition challenging the implementation of CBSE's three-language policy for Class 9 students from the 2026-27 academic session. The court has directed that the plea be heard along with similar petitions already pending before it.

A bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice V Mohana observed that the matter had been argued extensively and that there was no question of granting interim protection. The bench fixed July 14, 2026, as the next date for hearing all related petitions together.

Also Read: NEET UG 2026 Re-Exam LIVE Updates: NTA To Conduct Retest Today; Check Exam Timings And Key Guidelines Here

Petition Challenges Implementation, Not Policy

The petition was filed by NGO Friends of People for Active Democracy. During the hearing, the counsel representing the organisation clarified that the challenge was limited to the implementation of the policy and not to the three-language formula itself.

The court subsequently ordered that the plea be tagged with similar matters and heard collectively.

CBSE Introduces Three-Language Requirement

Under the policy, Class 9 students will be required to study three languages from July 1, 2026. At least two of these languages must be native Indian languages. Students opting for a foreign language will be allowed to study it only as the third language after taking two Indian languages.

Assessment of Third Language to Remain Internal

CBSE has clarified that there will be no board examination for the third language in Class 10. Assessment will be conducted internally by schools, and students' performance will be reflected in CBSE certificates.

The board has also assured that no student will be barred from appearing in Class 10 board examinations because of the third-language requirement.

Also Read: Today's School Assembly News Headline (June 21): Check Top National, International And Sports News Here

Schools Asked to Update Language Offerings

CBSE has directed schools to update their third-language options on the OASIS portal by June 30, 2026. Textbooks in 19 scheduled languages for Class 6 will be made available before July 1.

To address teacher shortages, the board has suggested inter-school resource sharing, virtual teaching support, and the engagement of retired teachers and qualified postgraduates. Special relaxations will also be available for children with special needs and foreign students returning to India on a case-by-case basis.