Political confrontation intensifies over CBSE evaluation controversy
A fresh political showdown erupted between Rahul Gandhi and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over allegations linked to the CBSE’s On-Screen Marking (OSM) system and reported discrepancies in Class 12 examination results.
The controversy has sparked nationwide debate after concerns were raised regarding the evaluation process used for lakhs of students appearing in the board examinations.
Dharmendra Pradhan accuses Rahul Gandhi of politicising issue
Responding strongly to Rahul Gandhi’s allegations, Dharmendra Pradhan accused the Congress leader of creating unnecessary panic among students and parents.
“He seems to have reached a different state of mind. Due to continuous electoral defeats, he appears frustrated. He opposed SIR, he opposed EVMs, and he opposed Digital India. He does not seem to stand with India’s scientific progress. Politics can be done later, but right now the most important thing is that the mental stress of students and examinees should not increase further,” Pradhan said while speaking to reporters.
The Union Minister also stressed that student welfare should remain the top priority during the ongoing controversy.
Rahul Gandhi questions role of CBSE contractor
Rahul Gandhi responded sharply, insisting that serious questions surrounding the OSM system could not be ignored. He alleged that the company entrusted with the evaluation process had a controversial history under a previous identity.
“Either you conducted a background check and still went ahead, or you failed to conduct one at all. In either case, you are complicit,” Gandhi said while targeting the government over the issue.
The Congress leader further criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and claimed that accountability was necessary in matters affecting students’ futures.
Centre admits discrepancies in evaluation process
Amid the escalating political exchange, the Centre acknowledged that discrepancies had occurred in the examination evaluation process and assured corrective measures.
“The government acknowledges some discrepancies, accepts responsibility, and promises corrective measures. Officials will ensure that no student query remains unresolved, and accountability will be fixed at all levels,” Pradhan stated.
The admission marked the first official acknowledgement from the Centre regarding issues linked to the CBSE evaluation mechanism.
IITs tasked with reviewing OSM technology
The Education Ministry also announced that premier institutes including Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur and Indian Institute of Technology Madras would examine the On-Screen Marking technology and suggest improvements to strengthen transparency and accuracy.
Officials confirmed that the CBSE revaluation process had already begun and students’ grievances would be addressed on priority.
Students and parents remain anxious over results
The controversy surrounding the evaluation process has triggered anxiety among students and families across the country, with many seeking clarity over marks, moderation policies and rechecking procedures.
Political observers believe the issue may continue to dominate national discourse as opposition parties intensify pressure on the government over accountability and examination reforms.
