The implementation of the Three Language Policy for current Grade IX students (2026-2027 batch) has caused deep concern among parents, students, and educators across India.

As per the recent CBSE circular of May 15, 2026, students are now required to study two Indian languages in addition to English. While the objective of promoting multilingualism and national unity under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is appreciated and respected, the sudden implementation of this policy for students already in the middle of their academic journey is unfair and deeply disruptive.

Abruptly changing the language requirements in  higher classes like Grade IX, places an immense academic and emotional burden on students who are already coping with a demanding curriculum and major syllabus changes as already introduced at the starting of the current academic session from April, 2026.

This academic session  has already begun amidst unprecedented confusion especially current batch of Grade IX students:

• Sudden overhaul of the Grade IX curriculum;

• Delayed availability of English, Math, and Science NCERT textbooks for grade IX;

• Poor quality printing of these newly released books

• Social Science textbooks still unavailable for Grade IX;

• Mathematics textbooks released only in incomplete parts, with Part 2 still awaited.

In such circumstances, introducing another major policy shift mid-session is adding avoidable stress and uncertainty for students, parents, and schools alike.

We are not against educational reforms or meaningful policy changes. Change is necessary for progress. However, reforms must be implemented with planning, preparedness, and sensitivity toward children’s academic continuity and mental well-being.

If curriculum or policy changes are introduced:

• Revised books and resources should be available before the academic session begins

• Schools should receive sufficient preparation time to accommodate such policy changes;

• Major policy shifts should be implemented for future batches, from lower grades, not imposed midway on existing students

A phased , gradual implementation would be far more practical and humane. It would allow current students to complete their schooling with the language choices they committed to years earlier,  and/ or at the beginning of the academic session, while enabling future batches to transition smoothly into the revised framework.

We therefore urge CBSE to:

1. Put the immediate implementation of the revised language policy on hold for the current batch of Grade IX (2026-27) students;

2. Allow students of Grade IX studying the languages including foreign languages to continue with their chosen language pathway until completion of their  Grade X ie until 2028.

3. Introduce the Three Language Policy gradually in phased manner at lower / middle school for future batches with adequate preparation time for schools and families.

We appeal to parents, educators, school leaders, and concerned citizens to support this request and advocate for a balanced, student-centric approach that protects both educational goals and student well-being.

Please support and share this petition to ensure that reforms strengthen education — not destabilize it.