Amravati: An education officer and another individual were arrested for allegedly tampering with state board SSC paper answer sheets at an examination centre at Anjangaon Surji, Amravati. Another accused education officer is absconding, said police. As per the complaint filed by the deputy education officer, Rajni Shirbhate, the accused had handed over the answer sheets to two unknown students, who were attempting to cheat.The arrested accused have been identified as Sudhir Khode, custodian (block education officer, Anjangaon Panchayat), and one Anil Hadole. Sushilkumar Abhyankar, co-custodian (education extension officer, Panchayat Samiti) is the third accused, said police. The education department has launched an investigation into the matter. According to sources, the flying squad led by Shirbhate conducted a surprise inspection at Sitabai Sangai Vidyalaya exam centre on February 27, around 4.40pm. The inspection revealed that two answer sheets, one English medium and one Urdu medium, were missing. The squad also found that Hadole had allegedly hidden the answer sheets in his shirt. The answer sheets were supposed to be sealed and sent to the DC custody centre by 3.30pm, but inspection found that they were still open.Police registered a case under various sections 316(5), 318(3)(4), and 61(2)(A) of BNS, as well as the Maharashtra University Board and Other Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 1982.The incident sent shockwaves through the education sector in Anjangaon Surji, with many calling for a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible. With police investigation underway, more arrests are expected. “We will take strict action against anyone found guilty of tampering with the exam answer sheets,” said Suraj Bonde, station officer, Anjangaon Surji police station.
