UDUPI (TNN): Elaborate arrangements have been made in Udupi district to prevent malpractices during SSLC examinations to be held in 55 designated exam centres from March 31 to April 15. CCTV cameras have been installed in all the exam centres to enhance surveillance.

Deputy commissioner M Kurma Rao said 13,753 candidates, including 7,185 boys and 6,568 girls, have registered for this year's SSLC examination in Udupi district. Speaking at a meeting convened to discuss the preparations for the SSLC examination on Friday, the DC said that all necessary precautions will be taken to ensure the smooth conduct of examination in the district.

"There will be eight examination centres in Byndoor, nine in Kundapur, 10 in Karkala, 12 in Brahmavar and 16 in Udupi. To prevent malpractices, all the centres will be equipped with CCTV cameras. No electronic gadgets like smart watches and mobile phones will be allowed inside the examination halls. The information will be passed on to the students and parents," the DC said. He also directed the officials concerned to appoint examination centre custodians, vigilance squads and mobile confiscation officers for each centre.

The DC also directed the officials that facilities including washroom and drinking water should be made available to students. Officials were also asked to ensure that students, especially those from rural areas, get proper transport facilities to the exam centres. Students can travel in KSRTC ordinary and express buses to the exam centres for free after producing their hall ticket.

Health staff along with first aid kits will be deployed at all exam centres. The official further instructed that the opening of question paper bundles at the exam centres should be video recorded. Adequate police security should also be ensured while transporting question papers and answer sheets, he said.

"Action will be taken against those who spread rumours that could create confusion among students and parents. Prohibitory orders under Section 144 will be in force within 200 radius of each examination centre and all photocopy shops in the area should be closed," he added.