Pune: Serious lapses in the evaluation of Maharashtra State Board Class 10 and 12 exam answer sheets have come to light, raising concerns over students’ academic futures. Reports indicate that several teachers are failing to adhere to confidentiality guidelines, with instances of negligent checking in public places, misplaced answer sheets, and even fire-related destruction of papers.
Every year, approximately 30 lakh students appear for these crucial board exams, which significantly impact their future career paths. However, despite state and divisional education boards' claims of strict monitoring, irregularities in answer sheet evaluation are rampant.
Instances of Irregularities in Answer Sheet Evaluation
While the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has set clear rules for the evaluation process, multiple incidents highlight a lack of adherence:
Answer sheets checked inside a moving ST bus: A teacher in Nanded was found evaluating students’ papers inside a crowded state transport bus, raising serious concerns about confidentiality and accuracy.
Answer sheets found on the streets: In Navi Mumbai, official answer sheets were reportedly found scattered on the roads, questioning the handling process.
Answer sheets destroyed in a fire: In Virar, a fire at a teacher’s home completely burned a set of answer sheets, leading to chaos and uncertainty over students’ marks.
Flaws in the System and Lack of Oversight
The state board has mandated that all teachers check answer sheets within their respective schools or junior colleges. However, many teachers and moderators are reportedly taking these answer sheets home, increasing the risk of mishandling. Despite the board’s guidelines, enforcement remains weak, leading to multiple incidents of negligence.
