Chennai: Headmasters have voiced concern that monitoring malpractice during Class 10 and Class 12 public examinations has turned into a “no-win” situation for schools.
The Class 12 public examinations, written by about 8.27 lakh students, conclude today, while the Class 10 examinations, taken by around 9 lakh students, will continue until April 6. To prevent irregularities, more than 50,000 teachers and over 5,000 flying squad personnel have been deployed.
Despite this, allegations have surfaced that invigilators, flying squads and headmasters are not taking firm action. Headmasters claim that the government has instructed the School Education Department to achieve a higher pass percentage than last year, and that officials have allegedly issued verbal directions to flying squads not to be strict with students who attempt to copy.
They also said students are using newer methods, including mini photocopies of textbooks, to carry “bits.” According to them, when invigilators notice misconduct, they are told to merely warn students if the material is found but not used, and that checking students could be termed as causing mental stress.
Headmasters further said male teachers face the risk of sexual misconduct allegations if they closely monitor girl students. As a result, they argue that whether cheating happens or is caught, the situation ends up becoming a headache for those responsible for supervision.
