The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), under its ‘unfair means rules’, has announced that it will cancel the current and next year’s board exams for students found with prohibited items, like electronic communication devices, in the examination hall.
In a notification, CBSE has enforced a strict policy against unfair practices during exams. Students caught with mobile phones, smartwatches, or other electronic gadgets will face immediate cancellation of their exams in all subjects for both this year and the next .
This follows incidents of students attempting to use these devices for communication during exams. Even possession of such items, without usage, will result in the same severe penalty.
CBSE emphasises that students must adhere strictly to the list of permitted items, which includes admit cards, pens, and simple analog watches. The notification also lays out comprehensive physical frisking procedures at examination centers to prevent these violations.
CBSE has instructed schools to publicise these rules widely to ensure students are fully informed. Schools have been asked to disseminate the guidelines through various means, helping students avoid breaching the regulations .
The board’s measures aim to uphold the integrity and fairness of the examination process. The board exams for Class 10 and 12 are scheduled to start on 15 February 2025, with approximately 44 lakh students set to appear.