Allegations of English subject question paper leakage during the ongoing annual HSC examinations (Matric) in Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts have prompted strong criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Yuva Morcha against the Odisha government. On Saturday, the party demanded the resignation of the School and Mass Education Minister, warning of agitation near the minister’s residence if the resignation is not tendered.
Speaking at a press conference in Bhubaneswar, Abhilash Panda, the Odisha unit president of the BJP Yuva Morcha, alleged a deep-rooted conspiracy by the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), suggesting involvement of a ruling party racket in the question paper leaks. Panda highlighted a concerning trend, asserting that similar incidents have occurred over the past five years without any officials from the School and Mass Education Department being held accountable.
Questioning the lack of action against implicated officials, Panda accused the BJD government of shielding individuals involved in such malpractices. Despite the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered CCTV cameras by the Board of Secondary Education (BSE) Odisha to monitor exam and nodal centers, Panda raised concerns about oversight, particularly regarding BJD leaders if they are implicated in question paper leaks.
Echoing criticisms, the Congress also condemned the state government’s reliance on AI-powered surveillance during exams. Krushanachandra Pati, a Congress spokesperson, dismissed the AI system as a facade, alleging collusion between the government and entities engaged in question paper leaks. Pati asserted a lack of transparency in the examination process and accused the government of misleading guardians by claiming transparency through AI.