The discrepancy came to light shortly after students at 3,111 examination centres across Odisha received their question papers. Teachers and students noticed that Set-C of the science question paper contained questions totaling only 96 marks instead of the required 100. Meanwhile, the three other question paper sets (A, B, and D) were correctly prepared with questions covering the full 100 marks.
BSE President Srikant Tarai addressed the issue, confirming the oversight. He explained, “A question worth four marks was inadvertently omitted from the Set-C question paper. The board will investigate this discrepancy and will implement necessary measures during the evaluation process to ensure that no student is disadvantaged.”
In addition to the question paper discrepancy, Tarai also informed the media that 11 students were caught resorting to unfair practices during the examination. Their cases have been referred to a special committee, which will deliberate and decide on appropriate action.
The board's announcement comes amid rising concerns among students and parents regarding the potential impact of the error on examination outcomes. BSE has sought to reassure all stakeholders that fairness and transparency remain their top priorities in addressing these challenges.