Karnataka SSLC Exams: High Court PIL Challenges Grading System for Third-Language Subjects

Karnataka SSLC exams face legal challenge as a High Court PIL disputes the replacement of the pass-fail system with a grading system for third-language subjects, including Hindi, citing student confusion and lack of official notification.

The Karnataka government’s recent proposal to replace the pass-fail system in nine third-language subjects, including Hindi, in the SSLC examinations has stirred controversy and is now facing legal scrutiny. The government plans to introduce a grading system instead of marks, aiming to reduce academic pressure on students. However, this decision has been challenged in the High Court through a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), citing procedural irregularities, lack of public consultation, and potential adverse effects on students’ futures.

PIL Filed Against Grading System

The PIL has been filed by HN Chandana, a resident of Doddabidarakallu in Bengaluru, and S Venkatesh from Gudenahalli in Nelamangala taluk. The petitioners have sought the court’s intervention to cancel statements made by Minister Madhu Bangarappa regarding the new grading system. They have also requested a temporary stay to prevent the government from implementing the proposed changes.

The respondents named in the petition include the Principal Secretary of the School Education and Literacy Department, the department’s Secretary, the Commissioner of the Public Education Department, and Minister Madhu Bangarappa himself. The High Court has not yet scheduled a hearing for the case.

Petitioners’ Key Objections

According to the petitioners, the minister announced the change unilaterally during a press conference on March 28. He stated that the pass-fail system for nine third-language subjects, including Hindi, would be removed and a two-language formula would be introduced from the current academic year.

The petitioners argue that this announcement was made without any public debate, cabinet approval, or consultation with language experts, making it a one-sided decision. They also highlighted the poor timing of the announcement, as SSLC examinations are already underway, causing confusion and anxiety among students. The move has also faced strong opposition from the public.

Concerns Over Students’ Futures and Legal Validity

The PIL raises concerns that the introduction of a grading system without an official government notification could negatively impact students’ academic records and future prospects. The petitioners emphasised that no official order has been issued to formalise the minister’s announcement, which is necessary for legal implementation.

Additionally, the petitioners contend that the decision violates the right to equality under Article 14 of the Constitution and infringes on the right to education under Article 21A. They argue that such a policy could destabilise the academic future of students and create an unfair and discriminatory system.