In a significant development, the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE) has canceled the Class 12 English examination for the March 2025 session across all examination centers in the state. This decision came in light of a potential paper leak incident at a government school in Chamba district, raising concerns about the integrity of the examination process.
Incident Overview
The breach occurred at Government Senior Secondary School, Chowari, in Chamba district, where teachers inadvertently opened the Class 12 English question paper instead of the Class 10 paper. According to the examination schedule, the Class 10 English exam was slated for March 7, while the Class 12 English exam was scheduled for March 8. This mix-up led to the premature exposure of the Class 12 English question paper.
Detection and Verification
On March 7, 2025, HPBOSE received an anonymous complaint via the “Exam Mitra App,” a monitoring system introduced to enhance examination security. The complaint alleged that the Class 12 English question paper had been opened before the scheduled date and time. The Board promptly investigated the matter and corroborated the claim using video evidence obtained from the app, confirming the premature access to the question paper.
Official Response
Taking the matter seriously, HPBOSE Secretary Vishal Sharma stated that maintaining the integrity of the examination process is a top priority and that any security lapses will not be tolerated. Exercising the powers granted under Section 2.1.2 of the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education Examination Regulations, 1993 (amended up to July 2017), the Board’s chairman ordered the immediate cancellation of the Class 12 English examination statewide.
Implications for Students
The cancellation of the exam has undoubtedly caused anxiety among students who had prepared diligently for the assessment. However, the Board has assured that a new date for the re-examination will be announced in due course. Students are advised to stay updated through official Board communications and continue their preparations to ensure readiness for the rescheduled exam.
Reassessment of Security Measures
This incident has raised concerns over the effectiveness of current security measures for board examinations. In response, HPBOSE is reassessing its protocols to prevent such occurrences in the future. The Board has assured students and parents that strict action will be taken against those responsible for the breach, emphasizing its commitment to upholding the sanctity of the examination process.
Conclusion
The cancellation of the Class 12 English exam by HPBOSE underscores the critical importance of stringent security measures in the conduct of board examinations. While the incident has caused temporary inconvenience to students, it also serves as a catalyst for the Board to strengthen its examination protocols, ensuring fairness and integrity in the evaluation process.
