Supreme Court Rebukes Tamil Nadu Over Hindi Teaching

The Supreme Court expressed concern over Tamil Nadu’s position on Hindi teaching and the establishment of Navodaya schools. The court suggested that the state should reconsider its approach towards Hindi and emphasised that language-related differences should be resolved through dialogue and mutual consultation rather than confrontation. The court also referred to the issue of students’ freedom to choose their medium of instruction.

The Supreme Court directed Tamil Nadu to take steps to facilitate the availability of land required for setting up Navodaya schools. While noting the differences over language policy, the court stressed the need to explore solutions keeping students’ interests in mind. In its judgment, the court held that a child or the child’s parent or guardian has the freedom to choose the medium of instruction at the primary school stage.