In a landmark judgment that addresses a long-standing demand in the state of Rajasthan, the Supreme Court of India has directed the state government to incorporate the Rajasthani language into the educational framework of both government and private schools. The apex court emphasized that the implementation should be carried out in a phased manner, ensuring that the transition is systematic and effective. Plus, the court has mandated the state government to submit a comprehensive compliance report regarding the steps taken towards this implementation by September 30, 2026. This decision marks a significant milestone for the linguistic identity of the region and the educational rights of its children.
Historical and Cultural Significance of Rajasthani Language
The division bench, comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta, presided over the hearing and highlighted the profound importance of the Rajasthani language. The bench observed that the language possesses a rich literary, cultural, and historical heritage that defines the identity of millions. The court noted that Rajasthani is already being taught as a subject in various universities across the state, which underscores its academic validity. Given its established presence in higher education, the bench remarked that its significance and suitability for inclusion in the school curriculum can't be questioned, while the judges emphasized that a language with such deep cultural roots deserves a formal place in the foundational years of a child's education.
Court's Critique of the Government's 'Limited Approach'
During the proceedings, the Supreme Court took note of the Rajasthan government's current policy, which limits the teaching of additional languages in schools to only those included in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The bench characterized this as a "limited approach" that fails to recognize the broader educational needs of the students. The court asserted that providing education in one's mother tongue is essential for the intellectual, social, and emotional development of children. It further pointed out that both the National Education Policy (NEP) and the fundamental spirit of the Constitution advocate for the availability of education in the mother tongue to ensure the holistic growth of young learners.
Balancing Constitutional Rights and Education Policy
The division bench clarified its stance on judicial intervention in policy matters. While acknowledging that courts generally refrain from interfering in the formulation of education policies, the bench stated that the judiciary can't remain a silent spectator when there is persistent inaction in implementing constitutional rights. The court emphasized that the primary goal of any education policy should be the welfare and development of the students. If the exclusion of a widely spoken mother tongue hinders this development, the court finds it necessary to step in and ensure that the state takes proactive measures to rectify the situation.
Petitioner Demands and Census Data Insights
The legal battle was initiated through a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Padam Mehta and others. Representing the petitioners, Senior Advocate Dr. Manish Singhvi and Advocate Apurva Singhvi presented a strong case before the court. They argued that the Rajasthani language shouldn't only be part of the school curriculum but also be included in teacher recruitment examinations, specifically the Rajasthan Eligibility Examination for Teachers (REET). 36 crore people in India speak Rajasthani. They contended that a language spoken by such a vast population must be given its due recognition within the state's educational and administrative systems.
Supreme Court Intervention Following High Court Dismissal
It's noteworthy that the matter had previously been brought before the Rajasthan High Court, while however, the High Court had dismissed the petition, stating that the judiciary couldn't issue direct instructions to the government on matters concerning education policy. Disagreeing with this stance, the Supreme Court took up the matter, recognizing the gravity of the linguistic and educational rights involved. By directing the state government to take active steps, the Supreme Court has now cleared the path for the Rajasthani language to be officially integrated into the school syllabus across Rajasthan, ensuring that future generations can learn in their native tongue.