The Central government has reassigned Central Board for Secondary Education (CBSE) Chairman Rahul Singh and Secretary Himanshu Gupta following growing concerns over the functioning of the board's digital evaluation system. The move comes amid a widening controversy surrounding the On-Screen Marking (OSM) platform used during the 2026 board examination process.
The transfers were ordered after the Ministry of Education initiated a review of the procurement and implementation of the digital assessment system. A committee has also been constituted to examine the circumstances under which the platform was introduced and whether all prescribed procedures were followed.
The OSM system was brought in to modernise the evaluation process and improve efficiency in checking answer scripts. However, after the declaration of results, several students and parents reported difficulties while accessing answer sheets and applying for verification and re-evaluation. Concerns were also raised about technical glitches and the overall functioning of the online platform.
The controversy gained momentum as complaints surfaced regarding discrepancies in scanned answer books and delays in post-result services. Questions were subsequently raised about the procurement process and the safeguards built into the digital system. The developments prompted calls from various stakeholders for greater transparency and accountability.
Officials familiar with the matter said the inquiry will assess both administrative and technical aspects of the project. The committee is expected to review the tendering process, implementation mechanisms and operational performance of the platform before submitting its recommendations to the ministry.
Education experts note that the episode highlights the challenges involved in shifting large-scale public examinations to digital systems. While technology has the potential to streamline evaluation and reduce processing time, its success depends on robust infrastructure, careful planning and effective oversight.
The transfer of the board's two senior-most officials marks one of the most significant administrative actions taken in response to the controversy. The findings of the inquiry are expected to influence future reforms in CBSE's examination and evaluation framework, which serves millions of students across India every year.
