The Centre has transferred CBSE chairman Rahul Singh and secretary Himanshu Gupta amid growing scrutiny over the board’s digital answer-sheet evaluation process. The move comes as the government steps up its examination of alleged irregularities linked to the procurement and rollout of the On-Screen Marking system, placing fresh attention on the ongoing CBSE OSM System Probe.
According to sources, the transfers were ordered days after concerns emerged regarding the procurement process for the On-Screen Marking (OSM) platform, which is used to evaluate Class 12 answer sheets. The system was introduced to streamline assessment, but questions have been raised over its implementation and associated cybersecurity risks.
Why Has The CBSE OSM System Probe Been Ordered?
The central government has constituted a one-member inquiry committee headed by S. Radha Chauhan, Chairperson of the Capacity Building Commission (CBC), to investigate matters related to the procurement of services for the OSM platform.
An office memorandum dated June 2 states that the committee will submit its findings to the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) within one month. The committee has also been authorised to seek assistance from officers across departments whenever required.
The development marks a significant escalation in the ongoing CBSE OSM System Probe, which is now examining both procurement practices and technical concerns surrounding the digital evaluation ecosystem.
Concerns Over OSM Rollout
The scrutiny follows criticism from sections of parents and teachers who questioned the decision to implement a new digital evaluation mechanism for nearly 10 million answer scripts. Several stakeholders reportedly expressed concerns that the system was rolled out too quickly without adequate safeguards.
The Union Education Ministry has intensified its review of the matter, making the CBSE OSM System Probe one of the most closely watched developments in the education sector this year.
Meanwhile, CBSE officials have denied any wrongdoing. The board has maintained that the procurement process followed General Financial Rules (GFR) and other government-prescribed procedures.
As investigations continue, the outcome of the CBSE OSM System Probe could have a significant impact on future digital reforms in India’s school examination system.
FAQs
Q: What is the CBSE OSM System Probe?
A: The CBSE OSM System Probe is an inquiry into the procurement and implementation of the On-Screen Marking system used for evaluating Class 12 answer sheets.
Q: Why were Rahul Singh and Himanshu Gupta transferred?
A: Their transfer comes amid scrutiny surrounding the CBSE OSM System Probe and the rollout of the digital evaluation platform.
Q: Who is leading the CBSE OSM System Probe?
A: The inquiry is being led by S. Radha Chauhan.
Q: What issues are being examined in the CBSE OSM System Probe?
A: The investigation is looking into procurement procedures, implementation practices, and cybersecurity concerns related to the OSM platform.
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