In a major crackdown on exam malpractice, Maharashtra authorities used drone cameras to monitor 12th-grade (HSC) state board examinations. The surveillance operation uncovered shocking instances of mass copying at multiple centres.
Officials confirmed that drone footage captured clear evidence of students cheating during the exams. In several cases, teacher invigilators allegedly assisted the students.
Mass Copying Detected in Beed District
The most serious violations surfaced in the Beed district. At an examination centre in Chausala, drone cameras recorded students copying answers in at least 16 different exam rooms.
Even more concerning, authorities found that some invigilators actively supported the malpractice. The footage reportedly showed teachers helping students during the exam.
As a result, district officials moved quickly to initiate legal action.
FIRs Filed Against 17 Teachers
Beed District Collector Vivek Johnson ordered strict action immediately after reviewing the evidence. Consequently, police filed FIRs against 17 teachers, including the chief conductor of the examination centre.
The accused now face charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita as well as the Maharashtra Prevention of Malpractice Act. Officials stated that the administration will not tolerate any attempt to compromise the integrity of board examinations.
Similar Action in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Meanwhile, authorities reported a similar case in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. During an English language examination, officials detected mass copying at a centre.
Police registered cases against 23 individuals, including invigilators who allegedly failed to prevent cheating. The administration launched this parallel crackdown to send a strong message across the state.
Technology Strengthens Exam Monitoring
The use of drone cameras marks a significant shift in exam monitoring practices. By deploying aerial surveillance, authorities could track activities across multiple rooms without physical interference.
Education officials believe this technology will deter future malpractice. Moreover, stricter monitoring aims to protect honest students and maintain the credibility of the HSC board examinations.
Government Sends Strong Warning
Through these actions, Maharashtra authorities have signalled zero tolerance toward exam malpractice. Officials emphasised that anyone involved—whether students or teachers—will face legal consequences.
As investigations continue, the crackdown highlights the growing role of technology in ensuring transparency and fairness in public examinations.
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