Several school principals have criticized the timing of the move, saying the rule was introduced after the academic session had already started. Schools now have to revise timetables, reorganize teaching staff and modify language options in the middle of the session. One school official described students as being treated like “guinea pigs” due to the sudden implementation.

Foreign Languages May Be Phased Out

Many English-medium schools fear the policy will gradually eliminate foreign languages such as French and German from regular curricula. Since English itself is treated as a foreign language under the framework, schools are left with room for only two Indian languages.

Schools across Delhi and other cities have already begun replacing foreign language options with Sanskrit or regional languages. Some institutions are considering offering French and German only as club or activity subjects instead of regular academic courses.

Parents and Teachers Raise Concerns

Parents have expressed anxiety over the sudden academic burden on students and the lack of clarity regarding textbooks, assessments and teacher availability. Teachers are also worried about job security, especially foreign language educators who may no longer be required in coming years.

The CBSE has stated that the move aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework 2023, both of which promote multilingual education and greater emphasis on Indian languages.