The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has introduced a controversial three-language policy for Class 9 students, mandating that they learn two Indian languages alongside a third language of their choice. This decision, announced on May 15, 2026, comes as a shock to parents and educators who had already made language selections based on earlier guidelines. Many parents are expressing their outrage on social media, likening their children to 'experimental rats' due to the abrupt nature of the change. Critics argue that the policy disrupts the academic focus of students who are preparing for board examinations and adds unnecessary pressure during an already challenging year. Schools are also concerned about the feasibility of implementing this policy, citing a lack of qualified teachers for regional languages and the logistical difficulties of fitting an additional subject into the existing curriculum. The decision has led to calls for judicial intervention, with parents seeking a stay on the implementation of the policy, arguing that it violates principles of fairness by altering requirements mid-academic session. The situation raises significant concerns about the impact on students' educational experiences and mental well-being.