Bengal to Live-stream medical exams to prevent cheating

In a major step to increase transparency in the medical examination system, the West Bengal government is implementing strict measures across all medical colleges. This initiative, spearheaded by West Bengal Health University, mandates the live-streaming of medical exams under CCTV surveillance. The move aims to curb any chance of malpractice or cheating among candidates and came after recent cases of examination irregularities were brought to light.

The decision to introduce live-streamed exams follows an October 21 meeting led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. During this meeting with representatives of junior doctors, multiple cases of exam malpractice were highlighted, prompting the Chief Minister to take a zero-tolerance stance. In response, she directed health and education authorities to put an end to any unfair practices in medical examinations.

Under this policy, all examination centers will now have CCTV cameras installed, and recordings will be preserved in university archives for up to a year. Colleges are required to submit footage within three days of each exam’s conclusion to ensure compliance. Failure to do so will result in delayed exam result announcements for non-compliant institutions. Additional measures, including a ban on unfair activities in toilets and heightened security protocols, are also in place. Candidates will be strictly monitored to prevent misuse of facilities during exams.

To maintain the integrity of the examination process, new guidelines address the secure handling of question papers. Each examination’s question paper will be downloaded a day before and printed under CCTV supervision in the presence of the assigned officer. Furthermore, all activities on the examination day, from opening question papers to distribution, will be monitored. Security has been enhanced with the deployment of an adequate number of police officers, thorough candidate checks at entry, and rigorous protocols for appointing examiners and inspectors.

The Chief Minister’s decision follows recent protests by junior doctors across the state, who have demanded improved security and stricter control over examination processes. These protests intensified after a tragic incident involving the murder of a female doctor. The state government has responded with these measures to not only prevent malpractice but also ensure safety and transparency in the medical field.