SSC teacher exams on Sunday after 9 years amid tight security
The Statesman | 7 September 2025SSC chairman Siddhartha Majumdar on Saturday announced a series of strict measures to prevent question paper leaks and ensure smooth conduct of the exam. Over 3,19,000 candidates are scheduled to sit for Sunday’s test, which will be held across 636 centres. The examinations for Classes XI and XII are slated for 14 September.
Mr Majumdar said question papers would reach the centres between 10 a.m. and 10.30 a.m. on Sunday. Distribution to candidates will begin at 11.45 a.m., but writing will only be permitted from noon, when the test formally starts. The entry deadline for candidates is 11.45 a.m., with the final deadline for entering the exam hall set at noon. “All centres are sensitive. No one will be allowed to leave before the examination ends,” Majumdar said, stressing that question papers carry unique security features. He added that anyone attempting illegal activities would be detected within half an hour. To prevent malpractice, candidates will undergo frisking with metal detectors. Mobile phones, smartwatches, and calculators are banned inside exam halls. Candidates may bring only transparent water bottles and pens, though the commission will provide pens as well. Admit cards and documents must also be carried in transparent folders.
Mr Majumdar further stated that admit cards will be scanned at the centres to authenticate candidates. “We have ensured every safeguard. Candidates must follow the rules strictly,” he said.
This year’s turnout marks a significant increase from the last round of examinations in 2016, when nearly all who qualified secured jobs. According to SSC, the number of candidates has risen by at least 2,50,000 compared with that round. The upcoming tests are seen as a crucial step for the commission, which has faced criticism and legal challenges in recent years over recruitment irregularities. Officials emphasised that restoring transparency and credibility is their top priority.
