The controversy surrounding the Central Board of Secondary Education’s (CBSE) On-Screen Marking (OSM) system intensified on Tuesday as 17-year-old student Sarthak Sidhant appeared before a Parliamentary Standing Committee to present his findings regarding the examination evaluation process.
The committee, which oversees matters related to education, women, children, youth and sports, reviewed concerns raised about the implementation of the OSM system in CBSE Class 12 examinations.
Student Presents Findings Before Parliamentary Panel
Sarthak Sidhant gained national attention after publishing a detailed analysis of CBSE’s OSM tender process on his website. His research was based on documents available through the Central Public Procurement portal.
According to reports, Sidhant presented his observations before the Parliamentary Standing Committee, highlighting what he described as discrepancies in the tendering process linked to the OSM system.
Following the presentation, committee chairman and Congress MP Digvijaya Singh stated that the panel would review the matter and await a response from CBSE before taking any further steps.
Concerns Over Tender Modifications
In his presentation, Sidhant reportedly argued that certain eligibility and technical conditions in successive tender rounds were modified in a manner that benefited a specific service provider, Coempt EduTeck.
He pointed to several alleged discrepancies, including changes in clauses related to poor performance records and blacklisting requirements.
According to Sidhant, provisions that previously addressed past blacklisting and performance concerns were altered or removed in later tender documents.
Debate Over Transparency in Evaluation
The issue has sparked wider discussions about transparency and accountability in examination evaluation systems.
The OSM system plays a significant role in the assessment of Class 12 answer sheets. Concerns raised by students and education stakeholders have prompted calls for greater scrutiny of the tender process and operational framework.
The matter has also attracted political attention, with several leaders seeking explanations regarding the procurement process and implementation of the evaluation system.
Parliamentary Review Underway
The Parliamentary Standing Committee is expected to examine the concerns raised by students and review CBSE’s response before making recommendations.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education has reportedly sought a detailed report from CBSE regarding the OSM tender process and related allegations.
As discussions continue, the case has become one of the most closely watched education-related issues in the country, with students, parents and policymakers awaiting further clarification from the board.
