CBSE vendor blames scanning error for answer-sheet controversy

CBSE Answer-Sheet Row: Vendor Denies Tech Failure, Points to Scanning Error

Hyderabad-based Coempt Edu Teck, the company managing the CBSE’s On-Screen Marking (OSM) system, has refuted allegations of technological failures and security breaches in its operations. The firm attributed recent complaints to isolated operational issues rather than flaws in its software or infrastructure.

The controversy gained traction after reports surfaced that a student allegedly received another candidate’s answer sheet. Addressing this, Coempt clarified that the issue was linked to the physical scanning process rather than a software malfunction. “We have identified the location and the individual who conducted the scanning. We have verified 100 per cent that, technologically, there is no error in this case,” the company stated.

The company’s response comes amid growing concerns from students regarding access to scanned answer sheets and the quality of images provided by the system. Complaints about blurred images and illegible handwriting in scanned copies have been noted, with Coempt confirming that these cases are being reviewed in collaboration with evaluation authorities. Additionally, the company dismissed claims that tender conditions had been altered to accommodate substandard hardware.

Coempt defended the scanners used in the process, stating that they are industry-grade models that are upgraded annually. It asserted that the scanning resolution is optimal and revealed that answer sheets have already been delivered to nearly 95 per cent of students who applied for access, despite isolated bottlenecks.

Addressing security concerns raised by a 19-year-old ethical hacker, Coempt clarified that the individual had accessed only a testing server containing dummy data, not the production system handling student information. The server was publicly accessible and intended for internal use, the company said, emphasizing that no student data or operational systems had been compromised.

The firm also responded to renewed scrutiny over its track record, particularly the 2019 Telangana Intermediate examination controversy. Coempt highlighted that the matter had been reviewed by courts, with the Supreme Court rejecting petitions seeking mass re-evaluation, compensation, and criminal action against the company.

Coempt Edu Teck provides a range of examination-related services, including digitisation, on-screen marking, AI-assisted evaluation, and question-paper management, to over 35 universities and institutions across India.