Stemming the Rot: Tackling Question Paper Leaks

The recent leaks of question papers for the prestigious NEET and NET exams have sparked nationwide outrage, igniting anger among examinees, parents, and the media. These incidents have cast a shadow over India's education system, highlighting vulnerabilities in a process meant to be foolproof. Having been closely associated with exam conduction, I understand the delicate nature and immense responsibility involved. Ensuring smooth, fair, and timely exams is a great challenge for examination-controlling bodies.

I have been associated with examination-controlling process closely.The examination process is intricate, encompassing multiple stages - from appointing question paper setters to printing, packing, and dispatching papers/OMRs to exam centers, including those in remote areas. Maintaining utmost confidentiality, privacy, and trust is crucial, as any breach at any stage can have catastrophic consequences.

Question papers are set by eminent subject experts and experienced academics, carefully vetted by the examination controller. These scholars are presumed to possess unimpeachable integrity. However, past instances reveal that even such luminaries can succumb to temptation, leaking their creation for undisclosed gains and disgracing the sacred examination process.

An examination controller has limited oversight capability and must rely on subordinate personnel to execute their duties diligently. Unfortunately, at times, these very employees collude with unscrupulous external elements for personal benefits, enabling such anti-academic activities. The root cause lies in the deteriorating moral fabric of our society, which fosters economic and academic scams alike.

It is high time concerted efforts were made to break this unholy nexus between paper leakers and their collaborators. Urgent measures are needed to plug loopholes in the question paper distribution system. Examination authorities must enforce the highest levels of secrecy at every stage - paper setting, printing, and distribution - to preempt any untoward incidents.

Both perpetrators and consumers of leaked papers must face stringent punitive action to serve as a deterrent. Exemplary punishment alone can curb this growing menace that tarnishes India's credibility on the global education landscape.

Enhancing and modernizing the examination process with cutting-edge technology and robust security measures is crucial. Equally important is the revitalization of societal ethics and principles. Only through these combined efforts can we preserve the sanctity of the examination system that shapes India's future.

Dr.Shiben Krishen Raina

Former Principal and Fellow at IIAS, Shimla (H.P)

Ex-Senior Fellow, Ministry of Culture,

Govt. of India.

skraina123@gmail.com