Exam answer sheet confidentiality questioned as Himachal Pradesh University orders inquiry

Himachal Pradesh University has formed an inquiry committee after a video appeared to show exam answer sheets transported on ordinary public buses and left unattended. Vice Chancellor Mahavir Singh held a high-level meeting and directed a report on confidentiality safeguards. The Students Federation of India alleged negligence, prompting scrutiny of exam security and transparency.

Himachal Pradesh University on Monday formed an inquiry committee after a video showed answer sheets moved on ordinary public buses. The clip also showed answer sheets left unattended on the Sanjauli Bypass Road. The video spread widely on social media and drew criticism over exam security.

Vice Chancellor Mahavir Singh called a high-level meeting soon after the issue gained attention online. An official said the panel will examine the handling of answer scripts. The focus is on whether confidentiality rules were followed during transport and storage of the papers.

Himachal Pradesh University answer sheets video prompts inquiry

The video surfaced two days before the university’s decision. It showed annual answer sheets being carried through buses used by students. It also showed bundles on the roadside. The visuals raised concerns about access to papers outside secure channels and the risk of interference.

The Students Federation of India SFI accused university officials of negligence in moving the scripts. SFI said the incident created doubts about the confidentiality of examinations. The complaint added to public pressure after the footage circulated across social media platforms.

Himachal Pradesh University answer sheets panel to file report

In a statement, Mahavir Singh said, "Given the sensitive nature of the matter, an inquiry committee is constituted, which will conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and submit a detailed report,\" the VC said in a statement issued here. The report is expected to address how the answer sheets were handled.

Mahavir Singh also said confidentiality, fairness, and transparency in exams remained the university’s main priority. The VC directed staff to handle all examination work with care and responsibility. The instruction asked officials to follow established rules and standards while carrying out exam-related tasks.

With inputs from PTI