CBSE Row: Vedant’s Physics Sheet Reveals Manual Evaluation Marks

The dispute over the CBSE On-Screen Marking (OSM) system has deepened, as fresh evidence from a Class 12 Physics paper suggests manual interference. Vedant’s re-evaluated answer sheet, which should have been assessed fully online, now sits at the centre of questions about how CBSE carries out marking.

This case comes amid a wider wave of complaints from students who sat the 2026 CBSE Board examinations. Many candidates report unusually low marks and confusion around the re-evaluation process. Families and student groups say the latest revelations further weaken trust in the board’s evaluation methods.

CBSE OSM system under scrutiny over manual corrections

Vedant first received marks that the family considered far below expectations in Physics. After applying for re-evaluation, the scores rose sharply. Relief soon turned to concern when the family obtained a copy of the re-evaluated script and noticed visible manual corrections instead of a clean digital record.

According to a report in The Indian Express, the scanned Class 12 Physics answer sheet, accessed by Vedant’s family, shows several answers changed with pen. There are clear overwriting marks, different handwriting styles at various places, and ink strokes that stand out. All this appears on a document that CBSE says is evaluated only through the digital OSM system.

Accountability questions for CBSE OSM system and evaluation process

Vedant’s father said, "We trusted the digital system for fairness, but what we received looks like someone sat with a red pen and changed the marks. This is highly suspicious and unacceptable." The family now wants clear answers on how such manual changes were possible.

Education experts and parent groups have sharply criticised CBSE, arguing that the very purpose of the OSM system is being undermined. The digital method was introduced to reduce human bias and increase transparency. Visible manual alterations, they say, defeat that stated aim and hint at irregular procedures.

The Central Board of Secondary Education has not yet offered any official explanation for this specific case involving Vedant’s Physics paper. Previously, CBSE has defended the OSM system, saying it includes multiple safeguards and quality checks. However, repeated reports of manual interference are increasing pressure on the board to account for such gaps.