The Supreme Court is set to hear a petition challenging a Central Board of Secondary Education rule on language education in schools. The case questions whether the board can make a third language compulsory for students.

The petition argues that the rule limits the rights of students and parents to choose subjects freely. It says schools and families, not the board, should decide which languages children study.

The case has drawn attention because language education has been a sensitive issue in several states. Supporters of the rule say learning more languages helps national integration and improves job chances for students.

Those against it argue that a forced third language adds pressure on students and cuts into time for other subjects. They also say states have the right to frame their own education policies.

The court’s hearing is expected to look at how much freedom the CBSE has in setting its syllabus. Its decision could affect lakhs of students studying in CBSE-affiliated schools across India.