UP Board Issues Stern Warning Against Cash in Answer Sheets During 2026 Exams
The Uttar Pradesh (UP) Board of Secondary Education has issued a clear and unequivocal warning ahead of the 2026 examinations. The board has declared that the discovery of cash within an answer sheet will be treated as a serious act of cheating. This policy extends accountability beyond the student, with invigilators also facing strict disciplinary action for any dereliction of duty in preventing such malpractice.
Board Secretary Clarifies Stance on Cash Insertion
Board Secretary Bhagwati Singh addressed the concerning trend, noting that some students had previously attempted to insert currency notes into their answer booklets. This misguided action, possibly undertaken in the hope of influencing examiners or boosting marks, has been met with a firm institutional response. The board's official position is that this constitutes indiscipline and will not be tolerated at any stage of the evaluation process.
Any cash discovered must be immediately deposited into the treasury, as per the directive. Furthermore, the District Inspector of Schools (DIOS) must be formally notified to initiate proceedings under the stringent UP Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
Comprehensive Exam Security Measures Enforced
To preempt such incidents, centre superintendents have been instructed to explicitly inform all students in advance that placing any unauthorised material—including currency notes—inside answer sheets is strictly prohibited. Invigilators are mandated to remain exceptionally vigilant to ensure a secure, orderly, and fear-free examination environment for all candidates.
All logistical arrangements, including:
- Final seating plans
- Invigilator deployment schedules
- Distribution protocols for examination materials
must be conclusively finalised well before the commencement of exams.
High-Level Review and On-Ground Preparations in Prayagraj
Additional Chief Secretary for Secondary Education, Parth Sarathi Sen Sharma, recently conducted a comprehensive review via Zoom with all DIOS officials. He directed the timely completion of all preparatory work and the prompt disbursal of advance funds required for examination-related activities.
In Prayagraj, specific security protocols are already in motion. Question papers for all 333 examination centres were delivered under tight security by Friday night. Continuous monitoring of strong rooms is underway, with unauthorised entry strictly barred. To enforce compliance, eight flying squads will commence inspections from Saturday. Additionally, static magistrate duties have been revised to prevent any procedural lapses and ensure seamless exam administration.
