Maharashtra HSC Exam 2026: Drone Exposes Cheating; 5 Teachers Suspended

The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has suspended five teachers and initiated an investigation against 12 others after alleged mass copying was detected during the Maharashtra HSC Exam 2026. The incident reportedly occurred on the very first day of the Class 12 board examinations, held on February 10, 2026. According to officials, drone surveillance deployed at an examination centre in Chousala village of Beed district revealed large-scale malpractice across multiple exam halls. The shocking footage allegedly showed exam supervisors assisting students in copying answers instead of preventing unfair practices.

Drone Surveillance Uncovers Malpractice

Authorities had arranged drone monitoring to ensure strict compliance with examination guidelines. The visuals reportedly captured copying in as many as 16 examination halls at the Beed centre. Following the discovery, police registered cases against 17 teachers, including the centre in-charge. Of these, five teachers from one school have been suspended with immediate effect, while 12 faculty members from three different schools remain under scrutiny. Officials stated that strict disciplinary action will be taken against anyone found guilty. The board reiterated its commitment to maintaining transparency and fairness in the ongoing HSC examinations.

Maharashtra HSC Exam 2026 Schedule

The Maharashtra HSC 2026 examinations began on February 10 and will continue until March 11, 2026. The exams are being conducted in two shifts:

• Morning Shift: 11:00 am to 2:00 pm
• Afternoon Shift: 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Major subjects in the schedule include English (February 10), Hindi (February 11), Chemistry (February 18), Mathematics and Statistics (February 21), Biology (February 25), and Sociology (March 11). The board has implemented enhanced security measures this year, including surveillance cameras and flying squads, to curb malpractice. The recent incident has intensified monitoring efforts across centres in the state.

Strict Action and Ongoing Monitoring

In response to the incident, MSBSHSE officials emphasized that examination integrity remains a top priority. The board warned that any involvement in unfair means — whether by students or staff — will invite stringent penalties, including suspension and legal action. With over lakhs of students appearing for the Class 12 board exams this year, authorities are maintaining heightened vigilance at all centres to prevent further irregularities. Students and parents have been advised to follow official updates from MSBSHSE regarding exam guidelines, schedules, and announcements.