TNPSC mulls encrypted papers, computer tests to curb leaks

In a bid to curb the leakage of question papers, Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) is working on various measures, including transmitting electronically encrypted question papers to the examination centres as well as planning computer-based examinations.

Speaking to reporters after paying tributes to former director general of police K Mohandas on Saturday, TNPSC chairman R Nataraj said one option is to transmit encrypted question papers electronically to the centres.

The question papers will then be decoded at the respective centres and printed using high speed printers two hours before exams.

He said this will be feasible only at the centres where the applicants are less as each question paper contains 60 to 70 pages and printing will consume a long time. 

Secondly, for the computer-based test, it is planned to transmit it 10 minutes before the exam. It will be decoded at the centre by the students. It depends on infrastructure and all the computers have to be sanitized which is a mammoth task, Nataraj added. He said many more options are being considered to conduct fool-proof exams.

He also said Group II examinations, which were cancelled following the question paper leak, would be conducted on November 4.

Earlier, delivering the presidential address to mark the fifth anniversary of B Force, a non-profit charitable trust to provide police personnel and their families with medical assistance, Nataraj highlighted the challenges police face in taking decisions in difficult times.

“Police has to take that unpopular decision at the right time,” the former director general of police, said.

Interestingly, his comments come in the wake of US consulate security being breached after it was attacked by a mob protesting against a controversial film.

The TNPSC chairman also presented the K Mohandas memorial award to V Vaikunt, former Director General of Police of Tamil Nadu, for his contribution to social causes.