CBSE Schools in Telangana Face Backlash Over Compulsory Telugu Language Policy
The Telangana government’s directive making Telugu compulsory up to Class 10 has triggered widespread opposition among parents and students in CBSE schools. Several top CBSE-affiliated schools in Hyderabad and other cities have made Telugu the sole second language, discontinuing options like Hindi and Urdu from the 2025-26 academic year.
However, this move has drawn criticism from educationists, school associations, and parents, as the CBSE has not yet issued any formal orders regarding the implementation of this policy.
Confusion Over Language Mandate
Teachers and school authorities pointed out that CBSE regulations allow students in Classes 9 and 10 to study only one second language alongside English and core subjects, with no third-language option. This has prompted some schools to preemptively introduce Telugu as the compulsory second language, even though the state government order does not explicitly mandate it.
Educationist Ameer Khan, chairperson of Hyderabad Sahodaya Schools Complex (HSSC), criticized the decision, stating:
“Some schools are rushing to implement Telugu as the mandatory second language. The state has issued directives, but CBSE also has existing guidelines about Hindi. Schools should wait for CBSE’s final decision rather than creating confusion.”
HSSC, which represents all CBSE schools in Hyderabad, has also urged schools to hold off on implementing the policy until further clarification is provided.
Parents’ Outrage Over Lack of Choice
Parents, especially those from non-Telugu-speaking backgrounds, have expressed strong opposition to the decision. Many claim that schools have unilaterally changed their child’s second language without seeking parental consent.
Concerns Raised by Parents
- Disrupts Learning: Parents worry that their children, especially in higher classes, will struggle to learn Telugu within a short period before board exams.
- Impact on Academic Performance: A sudden switch to Telugu could lower students’ overall performance, as they must master a new language at an advanced stage.
- Loss of Choice: Many parents specifically chose CBSE schools for their flexibility in language options, expecting their children to continue studying Hindi, Urdu, or other preferred languages.
Suruchi Todi, a parent of a Class 9 student, voiced her frustration:
“It is unfair to expect my son to learn Telugu in just a year and then appear for board exams in it.”
Similarly, Priyanka Sharma, another parent, stated:
“We recognize the importance of regional language and culture, but parents and students must have the right to choose their language of study.”
Growing Protest and Demand for Reversal
Parents have launched a campaign demanding the state government revoke the mandate or at least offer Telugu as a third language instead of making it compulsory as the second language.
Protest Actions Taken by Parents
- 1,500 parents have joined the campaign, engaging with officials and politicians to express their concerns.
- A mass email campaign titled ‘Freedom to Choose Language’ has been initiated to highlight the issue.
- Parents are planning a “Maha Dharna” (mass protest) at Dharna Chowk near Indira Park on April 5, awaiting police permission.
- Some parents are even considering taking legal action to challenge the mandate.
Key Demand from Parents
- Allow Telugu as a third language in a phased manner, rather than imposing it as the only second-language option.
Rahul Kejriwal, a business owner and one of the campaign organizers, emphasized:
“We are not against Telugu. But forcing students to learn it as a second language is unfair. Schools should offer it as a third language instead.”
What’s Next?
With schools reopening in June, tensions are expected to escalate if the issue remains unresolved. While the CBSE is yet to issue a formal directive, parents continue to push for a reconsideration of the policy.
The upcoming Maha Dharna on April 5 could play a crucial role in influencing the state government’s stance on language education policies in CBSE schools.
