The Karnataka High Court has clarified that SSLC students will be awarded marks, not grades, for the third language in the current academic year. The court emphasised that any changes to examination rules, including the introduction of a grading system, can only be implemented from the next academic session and not midway through an ongoing year.

The court further directed the state government to evaluate the recently concluded Senior School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) examinations strictly in accordance with the existing guidelines. It ruled that no modifications should be introduced during the evaluation process, ensuring fairness and consistency for students.

The directive was issued by a bench led by Justice E S Indiresh while disposing of a petition filed by three students. Representing the petitioners, Advocate R V Naik raised concerns over remarks made by Karnataka School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa, who had suggested that marks obtained in the third language might not be included in the final SSLC score.

The ruling provides clarity to students and reinforces that existing evaluation norms will remain unchanged for this academic year, safeguarding their academic interests.