TN Class 12 results: Probe on after 167 from one centre score centum in chemistry

An unusually high number of centums in the Tamil Nadu state board Class 12 chemistry exam has sparked concern among educators, especially from a single exam centre in Senchi, Villupuram.

A total of 167 students scored a perfect 100 out of 100 in chemistry from just one exam centre — the government girls higher secondary school.

Among these, 65 students were from the government school itself, while 102 others were from two nearby private schools. All three schools reportedly had more than 450 students in total, of whom the 167 who scored centum appeared for the exam from the same centre, raising questions of potential irregularities in exam conduct.

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Centum surge

The chemistry results were part of a broader trend this year, with 3,181 students across Tamil Nadu scoring full marks in the subject in the Class 12 state board exam results.

Other subjects also saw high numbers of students scoring centum, including 4,208 in computer applications, 3,022 in mathematics, 1,125 in physics, and 9,536 in computer science.

The science stream recorded a 96.99 per cent pass percentage, which was significantly higher than other academic streams.

Educators demand probe

Several teachers have expressed scepticism over many students from one particular exam centre scoring such high marks.

“It is very unusual for so many students to score such high marks from the same centre. This demands an inquiry,” remarked a government school teacher from Tirupur, noting that 55 students from the same government school also scored 99 in chemistry, making the results appear even more implausible.

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Calls for stricter monitoring

In the wake of the controversy, teachers have advocated for the installation of CCTV cameras at exam centres and stricter surveillance protocols during future board examinations.

A science teacher from Cuddalore, speaking on condition of anonymity, shared that even students and parents have questioned the fairness of the exam process and called for a transparent investigation.

“This reminds us of the 2024 NEET exam controversy, where several toppers emerged from a single centre. There must be an impartial probe,” the teacher added.

Minister promises inquiry

Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh addressed the concerns during a press briefing after the Class X and XII results were released. He confirmed that a preliminary investigation had been completed, with more in-depth inquiries ongoing.

He said a comprehensive explanation will be provided upon the conclusion of these subsequent investigations.

He clarified that the 251 students who scored centum in chemistry from the Senchi region included 167 students from a government girls higher secondary school, 17 students from a government boys higher secondary school, and 39 students from another exam centre.

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'No irregularities yet'

While defending the integrity of the teachers and students, Anbil Mahesh said, “Nobody gives credit to the teachers who have taught well or the students who have studied hard. Everyone is quick to cast doubt.”

He pointed out that the same school had good results last year, yet no suspicion was raised then.

However, he acknowledged public concern and assured that a thorough investigation was underway.

“The first phase of the investigation has been completed and around 100 individuals have been questioned. No irregularities have been found so far,” he added.

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Probe continues

Officials from the School Education Department stated that they are probing possible misconduct, including the likelihood of a question paper leak or the presence of any chemistry teachers as invigilators at the same exam centre.

Supervisors and other officials are being questioned, and the investigation is ongoing.