The state government of maharashtra has filed an affidavit in Bombay High Court as a response to the petition challenging Cancellation of Class 10 Board exams. This petition was filed by professor Dhananjay kulkarni opposing the states decision over Class 10 exams which came on April 19.
In the hearing on May 20, the High court confronted the state government and said that they have made a contemptuous decision which is unacceptable for the education system. The court ordered the state to file an affidavit citing a response and also sought an explanation.
The affidavit filed by Rajendra Pawar, the deputy secretary of School Education department mentioned that the decision has been taken keeping the safety and health of students as top most priority. The main reason is to avoid spread of COVID-19 virus among students and teachers.
The state has requested the court to support States decision for cancelling class 10 exams as the predicted third wave of COVID-19 in July or August would be more effective to childrens according to experts. Thus, conducting exams in physical format would be a factor of High Risk.
The affidavit especially highlighted that the decision is taken with the primary consideration to the lives of students, teachers, staff members and any other stakeholders. The State has no plans to withdraw this decision as the safety of 16 Lakh students are their responsibility.
The High court also sought an explanation over the state’s decision on holding Class 12 Exams. The government in response said that Class 12 HSC exams cannot be compared with Class 10 SSC exams any how. The importance of class 12 exams is undoubted and clearly explainable.
The results of Class 12 helps the students decide their career and admissions for higher studies. The state has postponed the exams till situations normalise and it will come up with a final decision as soon as the central government makes a call for national level Board exams.