Kamal Ghorui
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released two important circulars reinforcing examination integrity and student protection norms ahead of ongoing and upcoming board processes. In the first directive, the Board has imposed a strict prohibition on the distribution or mishandling of question papers before the completion of examinations, underscoring the need to maintain confidentiality at all stages. In a separate circular, CBSE has cautioned schools against collecting any unauthorised fees during the submission of the List of Candidates (LOC) for the Class X Second Board Examination. The Board has warned that violations in either case will invite strict disciplinary action.
Strict protocol to safeguard question paper confidentiality
CBSE has reiterated that question papers must be handled with the highest level of secrecy and discipline. Schools and examination centres have been explicitly instructed not to share, display, or distribute question papers to any individual under any circumstances before the examination concludes.Unused question papers must be carefully repacked and secured immediately after distribution begins. The Board has also prohibited sharing of question papers with subject teachers, retaining them in school libraries, or using them for any internal reference. CBSE clarified that all question papers will be officially uploaded online after the examinations are over, removing any need for local retention.The Board has emphasized that the number of question papers distributed and those which are subsequently repacked should match the number supplied in a bid to enhance accountability. The Superintendents at the centres have been instructed to enlighten all their staff members on the importance of adherence to these requirements.
No extra charges during LOC submission for Class X second exam
In its second circular, CBSE addressed complaints regarding schools collecting additional fees during the LOC submission process for the Class X Second Board Examination.The Board clarified that the LOC process is divided into three phases. The first phase is purely for data collection, where schools are required to submit candidate details without charging any fee. Only in the subsequent phases—where students finalise their candidature and subjects—is the prescribed examination fee applicable.CBSE has taken serious note of reports that some schools are demanding three months’ tuition fees at the time of LOC submission. The Board has categorically termed this practice as a violation of its rules and directed schools to stop such actions immediately.It further emphasised that schools must not collect any fee beyond the officially prescribed examination fee and must adhere strictly to CBSE guidelines. Any deviation will be viewed seriously and may lead to disciplinary action.
Zero tolerance for violation reaffirmed by CBSE
Through these circulars, CBSE has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards examination malpractices and financial anomalies. The Board has exhorted schools and examination centers to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness in all aspects, safeguarding the interests of students and the examination system.
