HC questions Karnataka's inaction on PIL against Kannada in CBSE, ICSE schools

The Karnataka High Court has pulled up the state government for a two-year delay in responding to a public interest litigation that challenges the enforcement of Kannada language instruction in CBSE and ICSE schools.

During a hearing on July 11, a division bench led by Acting Chief Justice V Kameswar Rao and Justice C M Joshi noted the prolonged inaction and cautioned that interim relief could be considered if the government fails to respond soon.

The petition contends that students in CBSE and ICSE institutions are being forced to study Kannada as a first, second, or third language as a result of the combined impact of various state regulations.

It highlights Section 3 of the Karnataka Language Learning Act, 2015; Rule 3 of the Karnataka Language Learning Rules, 2017; and Rule 6(2) of the Karnataka Educational Institutions (Issue of No Objection Certificate and Control) Rules, 2022.

According to the petitioners, these rules have placed undue pressure on schools, and compliance has become a concern due to the fear of penalties.

“Children are affected and disadvantaged,” the petition argues, pointing to the impact of these language mandates on non-state board institutions.

The plea also alleges that CBSE and ICSE schools have received threats over non-compliance with the language rules, with the No Objection Certificate (NOC) regulations adding another layer of pressure.

The court has asked the government to file its objections without further delay.