CBSE-chief saw leaked-paper hours ago, so why exam not postponed?
Since confirming two CBSE paper-leaks yesterday, the administration has scrambled to set things right. A special police team is probing the incident even as the government conducts its own investigation. But it has now come to light that the CBSE chief saw the leaked paper Tuesday evening, much before Wednesday's exam. Students are now asking, instead of re-test, why was the exam not postponed?
Students found out about re-exam minutes after completing their test
CBSE, in charge of conducting 24 exams annually for 1.2cr students, declared yesterday that they are holding re-tests for Class 10 Math and Class 12 Economics exams due to paper leaks. CBSE announced it minutes after Class 10 students finished their Math exam, and after officially denying leaks several times. Rumors had also abounded about Class 12 Accountancy, Biology, Chemistry and English paper leaks.
Did a change in norms worsen matters?
The CBSE generally issues four categories of question papers: Delhi, rest of India, outside India, and reserve. Reserve is used in case of last-minute problems, like leaks. Each category has three sets, mostly with the sequence of questions changed. But this year, CBSE had changed the norms and issued just one paper. Thus, a leak in any place could potentially have affected every candidate.
Under fire from opposition, HRD announces "new leak-proof system" soon
The opposition didn't miss the chance to slam the government. "Modi Govt should be renamed as 'Paper Leak Govt'!" said Congress' Randeep Singh Surjewala. "#Vyapam,AIIMS, #SSC & now #CBSE exam leak through WhatsApp. Is there any exam or selection which is safe&scam proof in India?" asked Prashant Bhushan of Swaraj Abhiyan. HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar has now announced a "new leak-proof system" from Monday.
Ajay Maken 'sorry for son and lakhs of others'
'CBSE acting like absolute authority, like greater than God'
Meanwhile, students everywhere had the same question: 'How is it my fault? Why am I being punished?' "The leaked paper reached a few but punishment is given to all. This is like acting greater than God," said Wahid Sultan (Delhi), adding his "faith in the CBSE's professional conduct is shaken." Ojas (Delhi) questioned why the Board had denied the leaks when it knew.
As police probes incident, students, parents mull moving HC
Till now, two FIRs have been filed in the cases. The Crime Branch is questioning those involved in the paper distribution process, while Delhi Police is carrying out raids. Meanwhile, students and parents are planning to move the Delhi HC, seeking re-exam in other subjects whose papers were allegedly leaked too. Dates for re-examination for over 28L board candidates will be announced this week.
