Karnataka's School Education and Literacy Minister has strongly refuted allegations of mass copying during the Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) examinations. The minister termed the claims as baseless and politically motivated, asserting that the examination process was conducted with utmost integrity.
Minister's Response to Allegations
The minister addressed the media on Wednesday, stating that the allegations were made without any substantial evidence. He emphasized that the state government had implemented strict measures to ensure fair examinations, including the use of CCTV surveillance and the deployment of flying squads. 'We have zero tolerance for malpractice. The exams were conducted smoothly across the state,' he added.
Political Reactions
The allegations were raised by opposition parties, who claimed that widespread copying had taken place in several districts. They demanded a probe into the matter. However, the minister dismissed these claims, accusing the opposition of trying to undermine the credibility of the education system for political gains.
He further stated that the government was open to an inquiry if any specific evidence was provided. 'We are ready to investigate any concrete complaints, but baseless allegations only harm the students' morale,' he said.
Background of the Issue
The SSLC examinations, held in March-April, are a crucial milestone for students in Karnataka. This year, over 8.7 lakh students appeared for the exams. The allegations of mass copying surfaced on social media, with some posts showing purported instances of cheating. However, the department of public instruction has maintained that no major irregularities were reported.
Steps Taken to Ensure Fairness
To prevent malpractice, the state government introduced several measures this year:
- Installation of CCTV cameras in all exam centers.
- Deployment of flying squads and inspection teams.
- Strict guidelines for invigilators and center superintendents.
- Use of biometric attendance for students and staff.
These steps, according to the minister, ensured that the examinations were conducted transparently. He urged the public not to fall for unverified claims on social media.
Impact on Students
The minister also appealed to students and parents not to be disturbed by the controversy. 'Our students have worked hard, and we must not let baseless allegations affect their confidence. The results will be declared as per schedule, and any genuine issues will be addressed promptly,' he assured.
The SSLC results are expected to be announced in May. The education department has already begun the evaluation process, which is being monitored closely to maintain accuracy and fairness.
