SC directs CBSE, ICSE to explain evaluation for Class 12 students

The Supreme Court has told the ICSE and CBSE to explain in two weeks about their methodology for evaluating Class 12 students.

New Delhi: The Supreme Court has directed the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE) and Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to inform the court in two weeks about its methodology to be opted for evaluating Class 12 students.

The Centre had earlier ordered the cancellation of Class 12 examination in view of Covid-19. Even though the Boards sought more time, the apex court declined it. The SC raised the concern of students regarding admission for higher education.

The top court observed the boards can set a criteria overnight, more time is not necessary. The boards had set criteria last year as well, the SC added.

The bench comprising of Justice AM Khanwilkar and Justice Dinesh Maheshwari was hearing the plea filed by advocate Mamta Sharma. The petitioner contended that postponing of exams will hamper the students who seek admission in foreign universities. The admissions are open only for a specific time period in foreign universities.

Advocate Mamta Sharma also mentioned before the SC that there are more than 1.2 crore children belonging to state boards for whom the decision is yet to be made. The SC said that currently the issues of CBSE, ICSE are being considered. Once both the boards submit the criterion, further boards will also be considered and interest of all students will be taken care of.

The SC had adjourned the hearing earlier as the Centre was to announce its decision on the matter on June 1.

The top court has asked the Centre to place on record the guidelines on Class 12 exams within two weeks after which the Court will dispose of the plea.