Parents, students protest against Telangana government’s Telugu mandate decision in schools

The mandate sparked widespread concern among students and parents, who felt that it limits their academic freedom and disregards their choice of language preferences

Hyderabad: Demanding the State government reconsider its decision mandating Telugu as a compulsory subject, parents along with their wards staged a protest at Dharna Chowk here on Saturday.

According to the protesters, the mandate sparked widespread concern among students and parents, who felt that it limits their academic freedom and disregards their choice of language preferences.

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Many parents, particularly those whose children belong to non-Telugu speaking communities and families who relocate frequently, have voiced their opposition to the policy, citing the challenges it creates in an already diverse educational environment.

“We strongly believe that every child should have the freedom to learn a language of their choice, without being forced into learning a specific language that may not be beneficial for their academic and professional future. This policy is an imposition that undermines the diversity of languages spoken in our state and goes against the spirit of inclusivity,” they said.

The protesters demanded the Telangana government provide flexibility for students to choose a second language that aligns with their needs, interests, and future aspirations. They wanted the introduction of Telugu, as a mandated third language, in a phased manner.