Mass Copying in Class 12 English Exam in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, 23 Booked

Mass copying was reported during the Class 12 English exam in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district on 11 February 2026. Following the incident, authorities took strict action, including registering an FIR and replacing the examination centre staff.

HSC English Exam Marred by Large-Scale Cheating

The incident occurred at Rashtriya Higher Secondary School, Jaitapur in Kannad taluka, on the first day of the HSC (Class 12) board exams conducted by the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education. Examination officials observed students copying answers from each other during the test. Police confirmed that CCTV footage clearly showed instances of mass copying, prompting immediate action by the vigilance committee.

FIR Registered Against 23 Individuals

Following verification of the CCTV recordings, a case was filed against 23 people, including Zilla Parishad teachers serving as invigilators and other exam centre staff. The FIR was registered under the Maharashtra Prevention of Malpractices at University, Board and Other Specified Examinations Act, 1982. Authorities highlighted that those found guilty would face disciplinary action. Steps have also been initiated to suspend the Zilla Parishad staff involved in the malpractice.

Examination Centre Staff Replaced

To ensure the integrity of ongoing exams, the entire staff at the affected examination centre was replaced. Officials from the education department stated that all measures are being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future and to maintain a fair examination environment.

Measures to Strengthen Exam Oversight

The incident underscores the need for stricter vigilance during board examinations. Authorities are reviewing procedures and monitoring systems such as CCTV surveillance and invigilator duties to curb cheating and maintain transparency in Maharashtra’s Class 12 board exams.