Chandigarh (National Times): The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has sparked controversy after its new draft policy for Class 10 and 12 board exams failed to include Punjabi (code 004) as a second language, while all other languages were listed. The draft, released yesterday, is currently open for feedback from schools, teachers, parents, and students before being finalized.
The omission has triggered strong opposition, particularly in Punjab, where Punjabi is the official language. Education Minister Harjot Bains has strongly objected to the move, demanding that CBSE and the Union Minister for Education reverse the decision immediately.
“We strongly oppose CBSE’s new exam pattern scheme, which is an attempt to erase Punjabi! Punjabi should not only be the primary language in Punjab but also be recognized as a regional language in CBSE across the country, as it is spoken and read in multiple states. Any attack on Punjabi will not be tolerated!” Bains stated.
With growing concerns over the marginalization of regional languages, educationists and political leaders are urging stakeholders to raise their voices and ensure Punjabi’s inclusion in CBSE’s curriculum.
CBSE has yet to respond to the backlash, but the demand for reinstating Punjabi in the policy is gaining momentum, putting pressure on the board to reconsider its decision.
