Confidential TGPSC OMR Answer Sheets Found Scattered by Roadside in Hyderabad
Serious questions have been raised over the security and confidentiality of the examination system after confidential OMR answer sheets belonging to a Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC) recruitment examination were reportedly found scattered along a roadside in Hyderabad's Shivrampally area.
Hyderabad: Serious questions have been raised over the security and confidentiality of the examination system after confidential OMR answer sheets belonging to a Telangana Public Service Commission (TGPSC) recruitment examination were reportedly found scattered along a roadside in Hyderabad‘s Shivrampally area.
According to reports, the OMR sheets were related to the 2018 Hostel Welfare Officers recruitment examination. Although the recruitment process was completed several years ago, the sheets were reportedly required to be securely shredded and disposed of after the stipulated retention period, as per the prescribed rules.
Eyewitnesses said the OMR sheets were scattered on the road between Pillar Numbers 230 and 240 of the PVNR Expressway on Saturday night, reportedly due to strong winds. The sheets allegedly contained sensitive information, including candidates’ names, hall ticket numbers and other details.
Sources said some of the sheets were blown by the wind as far as Aramghar Cross Road, while some commuters reportedly picked them up, assuming they were ordinary advertising pamphlets. After receiving information about the incident, local police reached the spot and took possession of the sheets.
The incident comes at a time when several controversies surrounding competitive examinations have raised concerns over examination security and transparency across the country.
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Taking note of the matter, TGPSC has ordered an inquiry into the incident. In a statement, the commission said preliminary information indicated that some OMR sheets had been found on the road and an investigation was underway to determine how they reached a public place.
The commission has directed the Superintendent of Police posted at TGPSC to investigate the matter and submit a report within three days.
TGPSC has also made it clear that strict action will be taken against those responsible if any negligence or lapse is established during the investigation.
According to the commission, OMR answer sheets from recruitment examinations are preserved for three years after completion of the recruitment process, after which they are destroyed confidentially in accordance with the prescribed procedures.
