Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president K. Annamalai has demanded the immediate rollback of the Central Board of Secondary Education's (CBSE) new three-language rule for Class IX students. The rule, which mandates the study of three languages, has sparked controversy in Tamil Nadu, where the state government follows a two-language formula under the Tamil Nadu Learning Act.
Annamalai's Stand Against the Policy
Speaking to reporters in Chennai on Tuesday, Annamalai stated that the CBSE's directive undermines the state's linguistic policy. He argued that the new rule is an unnecessary imposition and urged the board to respect the federal structure of education. "The three-language formula is not suitable for Tamil Nadu. The state has always promoted a two-language system, and any change would disrupt the academic balance," he said.
Support for State's Autonomy
Annamalai further emphasized that the BJP respects the rights of states to determine their own educational policies. He called upon the CBSE to engage in dialogue with the Tamil Nadu government before implementing such changes. The BJP leader also highlighted that the party's stance aligns with the state's interests, despite being part of the national ruling coalition.
The controversy erupted after CBSE issued a circular last week introducing the three-language formula for Class IX students from the academic year 2025-26. The policy requires students to study three languages, including at least one Indian language, which critics say goes against the two-language policy followed in Tamil Nadu schools.
Reactions from Political Parties
The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) has also opposed the move, accusing the central government of trying to impose Hindi. However, Annamalai clarified that the BJP does not support Hindi imposition and that the party's demand for rollback is based on educational and federal principles.
Educationists and parents have expressed mixed reactions. Some believe that learning multiple languages enhances cognitive skills, while others argue that it adds unnecessary burden on students. The Tamil Nadu government has vowed to challenge the CBSE directive legally.
Annamalai concluded by urging the CBSE to reconsider its decision and maintain the status quo until a consensus is reached with all stakeholders.
