High-level SIT probes CBSE board paper leak, 25 people questioned

The CBSE has decided to re-conduct Class 10 Mathematics and Class 12 Economics exams following the paper leak.

The Crime Branch of Delhi Police has registered two separate FIRs in connection with CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) paper leak. While one case has been registered in leak of Class 12 Economics paper, the other is in connection with Class 10 Mathematics paper.

Following a complaint by CBSE regional director, the police registered FIRs under section 420, 406 and 120B. Apart from this, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also been constituted to look into the incident. The SIT would comprise 2 DCPs, 4 ACPs and 5 inspectors.

According to the police, the paper leak happened just one day before the examination. The question papers were first leaked on instant messaging app WhatsApp and then was circulated through other social media platforms. As many as 25 people have already been questioned in connection with the case.

This comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his anguish over the incident to Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar. PM Modi reportedly asked the minister to ensure strict action in the paper leak case.

Addressing a press conference later on Wednesday, Javadekar said, “Some parts of the paper were leaked on WhatsApp and we've made a police complaint regarding it. An investigation is underway and strict action will be taken.”

A statement was also released by CBSE confirming the paper leak. It said, “Board has taken cognizance of certain happenings in the conduct of certain examinations as are being reported. With the view to uphold the sanctity of the Board Examinations and in the interest of the fairness to the students, the Board has decided to re-conduct the examinations in the following subjects.”

"Dates for fresh examinations and the other details shall be hosted on the CBSE website (www.cbse.nic.in) within a week," the statement added.

Class 10 mathematics paper was held on Wednesday while the Class 12 Economics paper was held on March 26. More than 28 lakh students appeared for the board exams this year.