In a recent decision, the Bombay High Court reversed the closing of exam centers for several colleges in Maharashtra. This decision was made after the centers were shut down because of a single cheating incident.
On February 11, 2025, during an English exam, a student was caught cheating at a center managed by Shramjivi Samaj Kalyan Mandal Hadolti. The incident was isolated, with no evidence of widespread cheating or involvement by the institution.
In July 2025, the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education sent a notice to the institutions asking them to explain the incident. Despite their explanations, the board closed the centers on December 18, 2025, using a rule meant for cases of widespread cheating.
"The State of Maharashtra admitted it was a single stray incident involving one candidate."
Shramjivi Samaj Kalyan Mandal Hadolti argued that the closure was unfair and based on a misunderstanding of the rules. They pointed out that the decision was not clear or fair, and that the board did not follow the correct steps.
On January 19, 2026, Judges Vibha Kankanwadi and Hiten S. Venegavkar ruled in favor of Shramjivi Samaj Kalyan Mandal Hadolti. They found the closure orders to be random and without good reason.
"Reasons are the heartbeat of the decision. Recording of reasons is not a mere formality."
The court ordered that the exam centers be reopened, emphasizing the need for fair and clear decision-making. They also suggested ways to prevent future problems, ensuring that exams are conducted fairly.
The decision emphasized the need for proper supervision and responsibility. Institutions must ensure a disciplined environment, while authorities should use competent staff and conduct fair investigations when issues arise.
