VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh High Court has observed that teaching in both Telugu and English medium at government schools is not erroneous and, in fact, helps bring students into the mainstream.

The court remarked that in today’s competitive world, lack of English proficiency could deprive students of opportunities, terming it an undeniable reality. It further noted that English serves as a link language that connects people across regions and sectors.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Lisa Gill and Justice N Jayasurya made these observations while disposing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) on Wednesday.

The bench recorded submissions made by the School Education Department, which clarified that students are free to choose their preferred medium of instruction and that a bilingual system is being implemented in government schools.

The court was informed that the proceedings issued on April 16 by the Director of School Education, which stated that English would be the sole medium of instruction, had been revised.

Officials submitted that the intent was to attract students by highlighting the availability of English medium education, but corrective orders were issued on May 6 removing the contentious portion.

Authorities further explained that textbooks are now being printed in both Telugu and English languages within the same book, ensuring flexibility for students. The PIL was filed by Professor Guntupalli Srinivas from Poranki in Krishna district, who challenged the April 16 proceedings as unconstitutional.

The petitioner’s counsel argued that the High Court had earlier struck down a government order mandating English-only instruction and that the new proceedings violated that judgment.

However, the government counsel clarified that the error had been rectified and reaffirmed that both Telugu and English mediums would continue.