Varsity Syndicate for action against Sivarenjith

The answer sheet bundles recovered from the house of Sivarenjith, prime accused in the University College attack case, were taken away in batches from the college, an inquiry by the University of Kerala has confirmed.

The findings of the inquiry conducted by Controller of Examinations (in-charge) Mini Dejo Kappen were placed before the Syndicate at its meeting on Thursday.

The recovered sheets were part of two batches of answer papers dispatched to the college in November 2015 and April 2016.

Onus on Principals

The report states that college Principals are responsible for ensuring the utilisation and security of answer sheets, from whom the chief superintendents collect answer sheets as per requirement on the examination days.

The inquiry also exposes the laxity of colleges in adhering to the examination system. Many institutions fail to submit stock details of answer sheets as well as the utilisation certificate.

Probe panel formed

In the wake of the findings, the Syndicate instituted a probe by a subcommittee comprising members K.B. Manoj, K. Lalitha, and Gopachandran K.G. to identify lapses and suggest recommendations to address inadequacies.

The varsity will also conduct a stocktaking of answer sheets issued to affiliated colleges since 2015.

Vigilance cell

Addressing the media, Syndicate member K.H. Babujan said the university would establish a Vigilance cell to monitor the administration and examination mechanisms, for which the government would be requested to depute a police officer in the rank of Superintendent of Police.

He said the Principal and the Chief Superintendent of University College failed to ensure the safe storage of the excess answer sheets. The university also recommended the government to initiate criminal proceedings against Sivarenjith for the alleged theft and illegal possession of the answer sheets. The Syndicate also decided to introduce several reforms in the examination system. All colleges will be required to submit details of answer sheets, both filled and unused, on a daily basis during examinations through e-mail.

Surveillance cameras

Surveillance cameras will have to be installed in rooms used by colleges to store answer sheets and other examination-related documents.

A full-fledged wing will be formed to conduct inspections at examination centres. Barcoding will also be introduced for answer sheets. As part of strengthening the examination system, the varsity will organise a meeting of Principals and chief superintendents of all affiliating institutions on July 26.