Bengaluru: In a significant development for students and parents awaiting SSLC results, the High Court has delivered a crucial verdict. The court has strictly directed the state government to award marks instead of grades for Hindi, the third language, in the current academic year's SSLC examinations. The bench, headed by Justice E.S. Indresh, passed this order while disposing of a review petition filed by the state government.
The Government's Argument
Representing the state, Advocate General Shashikiran Shetty argued, "Over a lakh students are failing in the Hindi language. To reduce this pressure on students, the government is drafting rules to implement a grading system instead of awarding marks." He also brought to the court's notice that a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on the same matter had already been dismissed by a divisional bench.
High Court’s Stringent Questioning
Refusing to accept the government’s logic, the court raised several serious questions:
Lack of Clarity in Notification: The court noted that the grading system should have been clearly mentioned when the examination notification was first issued. Implementing a new system abruptly, which was not part of the initial notification, is legally unsound.
"Why Conduct Exams?": Taking a swipe at the high passing percentages, the court remarked, "Currently, 83% of students are passing in PUC. If your intention is to simply pass everyone, then why conduct the examinations at all? You might as well cancel them."
No Changes Before Rules are Framed: The court clarified that the government can take appropriate action only after the formal rules are framed. Changing the marking system before the rules are officially in place is inappropriate.
Applicable for the 2025-26 Academic Year
As per the High Court's order, marks must be compulsorily awarded for the Hindi language for the 2025-26 academic year. This ensures that third-language marks will be included in this year's SSLC results. The court added that the government may consider the grading system for future years only after the necessary regulations are formally established. With this ruling, it is now confirmed that Hindi marks will retain their place on the SSLC marks cards this year.