Mass Copying Caught in Maharashtra HSC English Exam; 23 Booked

On the first day of the Maharashtra Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) Class 12 English examination, a major instance of mass copying was uncovered at Rashtriya Higher Secondary School in Jaitapur, located in Kannad taluka of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. The malpractice was captured on CCTV footage and confirmed by police and board officials, prompting swift action under anti-malpractice laws.

CCTV Footage Reveals Widespread Malpractice

According to police and educational authorities, students at the exam centre were seen exchanging answers and copying from each other’s papers. The CCTV video evidence played a key role in confirming the malpractice, leading to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against 23 people, including Zilla Parishad teachers who were invigilators and other exam staff. Disciplinary action is being initiated, and those implicated are facing possible suspension. The offence has been registered under provisions of the Maharashtra Prevention of Malpractices at University, Board and Other Specified Examinations Act, 1982. Following the incident, the entire staff at the affected exam centre has been replaced to ensure the integrity of ongoing examinations.

Irregularities Across Maharashtra Board Exams

While the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar incident was significant, the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) reported several irregularities across the state during the English paper held on 10 February 2026. Authorities recorded multiple cases of malpractice in different divisions, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining exam discipline despite enhanced monitoring. To counter such incidents, the board has deployed CCTV cameras and drone surveillance at sensitive examination centres and sealed off potential external cheating aids such as photocopy shops near exam venues. Officials emphasised a zero-tolerance stance towards malpractice and reiterated that strict action will follow any breach of exam conduct rules.

Maharashtra Board’s Response and Future Measures

The MSBSHSE has taken a proactive approach by placing flying squads and video monitoring teams across centres and introducing other anti-cheating protocols. School staff and invigilators are being monitored closely, and technology such as real-time CCTV coverage is being used extensively to deter malpractice. The board has also clarified that actions will be taken not just against students but against any staff or officials found negligent or complicit. Board authorities have urged students to uphold the integrity of the examination process and reminded schools to comply with all surveillance and anti-cheating requirements. Investigations into the Sambhajinagar incident and other irregularities are ongoing, and further actions are expected as the board continues the HSC exam cycle through March 2026.