2024 HSC Exams : An increase in cases of cheating compared to previous year

The stringent steps taken by the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) to prevent malpractices during the Class 12 Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinations do not appear to have had the desired effect, as there have been more cases of cheating this year than in 2023.

Data from the state board indicates that, of the 247 cases of cheating that were reported in 2023, 234 cases have been reported thus far in the HSC exam, which began on February 21. The HSC exams for the arts, commerce, science, and vocational streams will continue until March 19.

In 2023, there were multiple incidents reported throughout the state in which question papers were leaked, teachers assisted students with copy material, and formal complaints were filed during the HSC exams.

According to the 2024 data, the greatest number of cases of cheating—54—was reported on February 29 for political science and chemistry papers. This was followed by 50 cases for physics papers on February 27 and 48 cases for biology and history papers on March 6.

To make this year’s HSC and SSC exams copy-free, the state board is launching a “copy-free” campaign in collaboration with district authorities. Tight regulations were put into place, and in addition to CCTV camera coverage, exam centers saw an increase in flying squads and vigilance teams.

According to a senior State Board official, all divisions are being watched over for the current board exams, and any students found to be cheating will face consequences.