Gurugram — In a significant development with implications for governance and public trust, Haryana’s Board of School Education (BSEH) has initiated a high-level vigilance investigation into alleged financial irregularities surrounding the deployment of an on-screen marking (OSM) system during the 2024 Class X and XII board examinations. The probe, launched on 19 December 2025, seeks to uncover the decision-making process, procurement practices, and cost escalations associated with the controversial digital evaluation initiative.
The OSM system, introduced with the aim of modernizing assessment and improving result turnaround times, soon became contentious due to its high cost structure. An internal audit revealed that the board paid ₹70 per answer sheet evaluated digitally—a rate far above the approximately ₹15 typically paid for manual assessment. This discrepancy translated into an estimated excess expenditure of ₹70 lakh borne by state resources.
Board chairperson Pawan Sharma, who has overseen the vigilance action, described the procurement and implementation process as deeply flawed. He criticised the decision to outsource evaluation without adequate internal capacity or readiness and criticised the tendering process for creating conditions that effectively limited competitive bidding. Allegations include potential bidder manipulation, acceptance of ineligible participants, and dismissing auditor warnings about procedural gaps.
Teachers’ representatives, who had raised concerns about the OSM system since its inception, welcomed the investigation but also emphasised the need for comprehensive systemic reforms. Critics argue that whistleblower concerns were sidelined, and that decision-makers prioritized expediency over fiscal prudence and academic integrity.
The investigation’s findings are likely to have cascading effects across the education sector in Haryana. If official culpability is established, responsible individuals could face disciplinary actions, and the board may be required to overhaul evaluation policies to restore credibility and financial accountability.
Educational policy analysts suggest that the controversy also raises broader questions about digital transitions in large state exam systems. While digitisation offers efficiency gains, experts stress that robust governance, transparent procurement, and inclusive consultation with educators must accompany technological shifts to avoid costly missteps.
