Kolkata, 19 February (H.S.): The final semester of the 2026 Higher Secondary Examination began last Thursday, marking the first time the exam is being conducted under a semester-based system. While the examinations had been proceeding smoothly, allegations of out-of-syllabus questions in the mathematics paper on Thursday sparked widespread concern among students, parents, and teachers.
Candidates and parents are concerned about this issue, while educational organizations have also become vocal.
Candidates said that some questions in the mathematics paper were difficult to answer within the allotted time. Teachers alleged that a question related to differential equations was out-of-syllabus. This question was given in question 5 (A), carrying a full two marks. Furthermore, questions 11 (B) and (C), each carrying four marks, are also being claimed to be out-of-syllabus. Thus, questions worth a total of 10 marks are claimed to be out-of-syllabus. Teachers also say that some questions were practically difficult for students to solve within the limited time and prescribed answer sheets.
Following the teachers' complaints, the West Bengal Higher Secondary Education Council stated that the matter would be investigated and necessary action would be taken. However, Council President Chiranjib Bhattacharya denied the allegation that the three questions were incorrect. He stated that two questions were marked as out of syllabus and that the Council would do whatever was necessary in the best interests of students.
The Shikshanuragi Ekya Manch has raised its voice against the Higher Secondary Education Council regarding this entire matter. The organization's General Secretary, Kinkar Adhikari, stated that this year, students already have very little time for studies and classes. Therefore, if questions outside the syllabus are asked and additional time is required to solve some questions, it is unfair to the students. He demanded that the Council take concrete steps to ensure fair evaluation.
Kinkar Adhikari also said that his organization has been opposing the semester system since its inception. According to him, the semester system at the higher secondary level is neither scientific nor practical in such a short period of time. It is impossible to cover the entire curriculum in a limited period, weakening students' foundations. He reiterated his demand for the reinstatement of the semester system.
Currently, questions raised about the mathematics exam have once again sparked debate about the education system and the new examination system.
---------------
Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey
