The Supreme Court on August 20, 2026, questioned the CBSE's use of the term 'native' in the NEP 2020 language policy, suggesting 'indigenous' as a more appropriate alternative.
A bench led by CJI Surya Kant directed the CBSE to provide a roadmap for the policy's rollout, specifically addressing concerns regarding teacher availability and infrastructure for the 2026-27 session.
The court requested the board to reconsider the transition for current Class 6 students and evaluate whether the third language mandate should be delayed until students reach Class 3 or 4.