Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh: A major irregularity has been uncovered in the allocation of exam centers for the UP Board High School and Intermediate exams in Azamgarh. Following complaints, an investigation was conducted by the Joint Education Director, which confirmed the allegations. The inquiry revealed that even the District Inspector of Schools (DIOS) was involved in the misconduct. A report on the matter has been submitted to the Examination Secretary.
Serious Allegations in Exam Center Allocation
Reports suggest that irregularities in the allocation process were so severe that teacher organizations also raised complaints at the district level. However, no action was initially taken, and 282 exam centers were finalized. It was alleged that Exam In-Charge Umakant Yadav manipulated the process and even demanded bribes of up to ₹2.5 lakh for setting up examination centers. Complaints were formally registered with the Secretary of the Secondary Education Council in Prayagraj by opposition leader Lal Bihari Yadav, Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shikshak Sangh patron Ramjanam Singh, and Shri Durgaji Inter College.
Investigation Confirms Major Irregularities
After receiving complaints, Joint Education Director Dinesh Singh led the inquiry, which confirmed multiple allegations. The investigation revealed that two official meetings were held for center allocation—one chaired by the District Magistrate (DM). However, another meeting, which was officially recorded as conducted, never actually took place. When the signatures from both meetings were cross-verified, discrepancies were found in the signatures of DM Navneet Singh Chahal and other officials. Based on these findings, the inquiry report was sent to the Examination Secretary, recommending strict action against DIOS Upendra Kumar.
Key Findings of the Investigation
- Unjustified Center Transfers: The exam centers of 165 schools were arbitrarily changed.
- Violation of Government Guidelines: Schools with higher merit scores were overlooked, while less qualified institutions were given exam centers.
- Long-Distance Exam Centers: In one case, a school’s exam center was moved 75 km away, which was later corrected in the interest of students.
- Forgery of Official Signatures: Discrepancies were found in the signatures of key officials involved in the process.
Government Action Awaited
The investigation confirms that these irregularities took place under the leadership of the District Inspector of Schools (DIOS). While the involvement of subordinate officials was also evident, higher authorities, including DIOS, are being held accountable. The inquiry report has been submitted to the state government, and strict action is expected soon.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
