In a significant development for CBSE board examination students, the Central Information Commission (CIC) has directed the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to charge photocopying fees for answer sheets strictly according to the provisions of the RTI Rules, 2012.
The decision came after a Class 10 student filed an RTI application seeking copies of his evaluated answer sheets. The student had raised concerns about the high cost involved in CBSE's regular verification and re-evaluation process.
According to the case details, the student sought access to his answer sheets under the Right to Information Act, arguing that the overall cost of obtaining photocopies, verification, and re-evaluation could become expensive. The CIC examined the matter and emphasised that when answer scripts are requested through the RTI Act, the applicable photocopying charges must follow the RTI Rules, 2012.
The Commission also raised concerns about a CBSE circular issued on May 19, 2025, which restricted candidates from seeking verification or re-evaluation after obtaining copies of their answer sheets through RTI. The CIC observed that such a restriction was not in line with the spirit of the transparency law.
Referring to the overriding provisions of the RTI Act, the CIC stated that other rules or regulations cannot impose conditions that conflict with the rights provided under the transparency law. It recommended that CBSE amend its circular to bring it in line with the RTI Act.
The decision is expected to strengthen transparency in the examination system and make it easier for students to access their evaluated answer sheets through the RTI process. CBSE's official RTI information currently states that photocopies of documents can be provided under the prescribed RTI fee structure.
This development could provide greater clarity to students seeking access to their board examination answer scripts and reinforce their right to information.
