Age rule sparks fresh storm: Parents knock on DCM’s door seeking class 1 entry for 5.5-year-olds

Parents across Karnataka renew pressure on the government, seeking relaxation in the age limit for Class 1 admissions, warning of hardship to nearly 2.5 lakh children if the six-year rule continues.

A fresh debate has erupted in Karnataka over the age eligibility rule for Class 1 admissions, with parents once again demanding relaxation in the minimum age criterion ahead of the upcoming June enrolment season.

A group of parents, accompanied by their children, met Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and urged the government to allow admissions for children who complete five years and five months by June 1. The parents submitted a formal appeal, stressing that the existing rule mandating a minimum age of six years for Class 1 is causing severe academic and emotional strain on thousands of children.

Last year, the state government had granted a one-time relaxation, permitting admissions for children aged 5 years and 5 months as of June 1. Parents are now demanding that the same concession be continued this year as well, citing consistency, fairness, and the academic progression of children.

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However, the School Education Minister has categorically stated that no relaxation will be allowed this year, making it clear that the six-year age rule will be implemented strictly for the 2026-27 academic year. This announcement has triggered widespread concern among parents, who argue that the rigid policy could adversely affect nearly 2.5 lakh children across the state.

Following their meeting with the Deputy Chief Minister, parents also approached the Commissioner of the School Education Department at K.R. Circle in Bengaluru, submitting another formal request seeking age relaxation for June admissions.

Parents fear that enforcing the six-year rule will disrupt their children’s education cycle, delay academic progression, and add psychological stress, especially for children who have already completed their UKG and are academically ready for Class 1.

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With June admissions approaching fast, the renewed demand has once again brought the age-limit debate to the forefront, leaving parents anxious and awaiting a final decision from the government.