The Socialist Students’ Union of Manipur (SSUM) has demanded the immediate removal of the Controller of Examinations of the Council of Higher Secondary Education, Manipur (COHSEM), alleging lack of adequate experience and serious lapses in the conduct and supervision of the examination process.
In a press release, SSUM stated that COHSEM plays a crucial role in conducting examinations that determine the academic future of thousands of students. It questioned the appointment of a person allegedly lacking the required experience to handle such a sensitive and important responsibility.
SSUM alleged that the present Controller has failed to effectively prevent irregularities in the examination process and has allowed certain activities to take place without adequate supervision. Such alleged lapses, it said, could adversely affect the credibility of the examination system and the academic interests of students.
The SSUM also raised concerns over the preparation and handling of COHSEM question papers. It alleged that question papers prepared by different teachers are sometimes shared with others for review or modification, raising concerns over the confidentiality and integrity of the examination process.
SSUM further alleged that some teachers involved in preparing question papers also engage in private tuition and that, in some instances, questions may have been disclosed or discussed with others. It said such practices could create opportunities for question-paper leakage and undermine the fairness and credibility of examinations.
The student body urged the government to immediately review the functioning of the Controller of Examinations and take appropriate action if the allegations are found to be substantiated.
It also called upon senior officials of COHSEM to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, ensure strict confidentiality in question-paper preparation and introduce necessary reforms to prevent irregularities.
Emphasising the importance of a transparent and credible examination system, SSUM said the authorities must take timely corrective measures to safeguard the academic future and interests of students in the state.
