The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) on 23 February 2026 reiterated that the Class 12 HSC Chemistry exam held earlier this week was not officially leaked, despite reports of the question paper being circulated on social media. Board officials confirmed that no re-examination will be conducted for the chemistry paper.
WhatsApp Circulation Incident and Police Action
Local police in Nagpur have arrested two individuals linked to the circulation of the chemistry question paper image on a WhatsApp group shortly before the exam began. One accused is reportedly associated with a private tuition class, while the other was part of the messaging group where the content was shared. According to authorities, the paper image was shared minutes before the scheduled start time, and invigilators in one centre noticed suspicious behaviour that led them to seize a student’s mobile phone. Though the message appeared on the phone, it was not opened in the exam hall and did not provide any undue advantage to students, said MSBSHSE officials
Board Statement on Leak Allegations and Exam Integrity
MSBSHSE authorities emphasized that the incident does not qualify as a systemic leak that compromised exam security. The board clarified the question paper bundles are distributed securely and are opened only at designated times, and that the timing of the WhatsApp circulation suggests it did not impact the wider candidate population. Board chairperson and officials assured students and parents that the rest of the HSC examinations will continue as per schedule and urged stakeholders not to rely on unverified rumours circulating online. Any individuals found responsible will face strict disciplinary and legal action based on the ongoing police probe.
Context: Previous Paper Security Concerns
This clarification comes amid broader security concerns in board exams, with police investigations continuing around suspected circulation of exam materials in messaging groups prior to scheduled papers. However, board authorities have consistently highlighted their commitment to maintaining fair and secure examination conduct.