Political Controversy Erupts Over CBSE's Language Policy in Puducherry
CBSE's New Language Policy Threatens French Learning In Puducherry?
Ndtv
Image: Ndtv
A recent circular from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) mandating a three-language formula has sparked political controversy in Puducherry, threatening the inclusion of French in schools. Critics argue this move undermines the region's colonial heritage, with potential implications for students starting in the 2026-27 academic year.
- 01The CBSE's circular mandates two Indian languages and one foreign language, likely excluding French.
- 02Former Chief Minister V Narayanasamy criticizes the policy as anti-democratic and an imposition of Hindi.
- 03The 1956 Treaty of Cession guarantees French as an official language in Puducherry.
- 04Schools have only seven days to comply with the new language policy.
- 05Stakeholders are considering forming an independent education board to protect Puducherry's linguistic heritage.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
A circular issued by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) on April 9 has ignited a political controversy in Puducherry, as it mandates the implementation of the National Education Policy's three-language formula. This policy requires schools to introduce two Indian languages and one foreign language from Class 6, which critics argue effectively sidelines French, a language integral to Puducherry's colonial identity. Former Chief Minister V Narayanasamy condemned the rushed compliance timeline of just seven days, labeling it an anti-democratic action and accusing the ruling NR-BJP of facilitating Hindi imposition. He emphasized that the new policy undermines the 1956 Treaty of Cession, which guarantees the preservation of French as an official language in the Union Territory. Students entering Class 6 in the 2026-27 academic year are expected to be the first affected, with French potentially phased out by 2030. Amid the backlash, parents and stakeholders are contemplating the establishment of a separate education board to ensure the protection of Puducherry's unique linguistic heritage.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The new language policy could significantly affect students' education and cultural identity in Puducherry, particularly for those who wish to learn French.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Do you support the inclusion of French in Puducherry's school curriculum?
Connecting to poll...
More about Central Board of Secondary Education
CBSE Class 12 Results 2026 Expected Tomorrow: 6 Easy Ways to Check Your Scores
The Economic Times • Apr 29, 2026

DMK to Protest Removal of French Language from Puducherry CBSE Schools
News 18 • Apr 28, 2026

Puducherry Political Parties Unite Against CBSE's Mandatory Third Language Policy
The Hindu • Apr 27, 2026
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.


