Karnataka parents protest class 1 age rule, seek policy relaxation

Thousands of parents across Karnataka are protesting the enforcement of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020's age requirement for Class 1 admissions. The rule mandates that children must be six years old by June 1 of the academic year they enter Class 1, disrupting the plans of nearly five lakh students.

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Previously, the Karnataka BJP government had relaxed this criterion, allowing children under six to progress to Class 1. However, the rule was reinstated in November 2022, leaving parents frustrated. While students in the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years were granted exemptions, those enrolled in pre-primary education in 2022-23 now face an extra year before advancing.

Parents argue that their children, who were already preparing for Class 1 at ages 5-6, are now forced to repeat pre-primary education, causing financial strain and psychological distress. Many have cited examples of states like Delhi, Maharashtra, and Odisha, which have provided transition periods for students.

Concerned parents met with Karnataka’s Commissioner of Public Education, K V Trilok Chandra, demanding reconsideration. They emphasize that an abrupt policy shift disrupts children's education and peer relationships, urging the government to ensure a smooth transition.

With the 2025-26 session nearing, parents continue to push for urgent policy relaxation, warning that the rule’s rigid enforcement could negatively impact thousands of young students and their families.