Education – Karnataka High Court Upholds Answer Script Evaluation System for SSLC Exams
Education – The Karnataka High Court has declined to revisit its earlier directive requiring the state government to continue evaluating answer scripts for the SSLC third language examination for the academic year 2025–26. The court rejected the proposal to replace the existing marks-based system with a grading method, reinforcing continuity in the evaluation process.
Court Reaffirms Earlier Decision
In its latest order issued on Tuesday, the bench led by Justice E S Indiresh disposed of a review petition filed by the state government. The petition had sought reconsideration of the April 15 directive, which mandated adherence to the established system of awarding marks rather than shifting to grades.
The court maintained that once examination procedures are notified, authorities are expected to follow the same framework without deviation. It emphasized that consistency in evaluation standards is essential to ensure fairness for students who prepare based on predefined norms.
Scope for Future Policy Changes
While upholding its earlier ruling, the court acknowledged submissions made by Advocate General K Shashikiran Shetty regarding potential modifications. It clarified that the state government is free to introduce a grading system in the future, provided it follows due legal procedure and amends the relevant rules accordingly.
This observation leaves room for policy evolution but ensures that any such transition is implemented transparently and not midway through an academic cycle.
Background of the April 15 Order
The original directive came after the state government indicated that answer scripts for the 2025–26 SSLC examinations would be evaluated under the norms in place at the time of the exam notification. Based on this assurance, the High Court instructed authorities to continue with the marks-based system instead of adopting grading for the third language subject.
The court’s intervention aimed to address concerns raised by students following remarks from the state’s Education Minister about introducing a grading approach. The announcement had created uncertainty among candidates who had already appeared for the examination.
Students’ Petition Triggered Review
The case was initiated by three students—Sahana R Naik from Chikkamagaluru district, along with Anusha and Sudhiksha from Udupi district. They approached the High Court seeking directions to ensure that evaluation would be conducted as per the official circular issued on October 28, 2025, by the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board.
The students argued that any abrupt change in the evaluation pattern after the examination could affect their results and overall academic prospects. Their plea highlighted the importance of maintaining consistency in assessment criteria.
Government’s Assurance on Evaluation Process
During the hearing, the state’s legal representatives assured the court that the evaluation of answer scripts would be carried out in line with the rules that were in effect when the examination notification was issued. This assurance played a key role in shaping the court’s April 15 order and its subsequent reaffirmation.
By recording this submission, the court directed the government to strictly follow the existing norms for the recently conducted SSLC examinations, thereby avoiding any confusion among students and educators.
Emphasis on Fairness and Transparency
The High Court’s decision underscores the need for clarity and stability in academic policies. It reiterates that any significant changes to evaluation systems must be implemented with proper notice and legal backing, ensuring that students are not disadvantaged by sudden shifts.
For now, the marks-based evaluation system will remain in place for the SSLC third language examination for the 2025–26 academic year, providing certainty to students awaiting their results.