Spreading question paper leak rumours to face legal action: Education Minister

Education Minister Dr A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon has said spreading misleading information on social media or in the press in the name of question paper leaks to disrupt the education system will result in strict legal action, including arrest under the Cyber Security Act.

He made the remarks at a views-exchange meeting with centre-in-charge officials of Sylhet Education Board, Madrasa and Technical Education Boards on Sunday morning, June 28, ahead of the HSC examinations.

The minister said attempts are being made to destabilise the education system by spreading rumours or misleading news on social media even when no question paper leak has occurred. Such propaganda will be treated as a punishable offence. If anyone posts or publishes news claiming a question paper leak, police will detain them for interrogation. If the allegation is found false, legal action will be taken for spreading misinformation.

He informed that the Anti-Cheating Act of 1980 is being updated with provisions for digital and cyber offences, and work is underway to enact a new law. Additionally, the 'Smart Classroom' programme will be launched nationwide from July 1, providing teachers with tablets and laptops and monitoring teaching through a central control room.

The minister said centre secretaries and concerned teachers will be held accountable if cheating or irregularities occur at examination centres.

Regarding primary education, he said promotions and new appointments for head teachers will begin soon after resolving long-standing legal complications. A policy is being formulated for the nationalisation of private educational institutions, and steps have been taken to fill vacant posts for religious teachers.

The meeting was chaired by Sylhet Education Board Chairman Professor Md Anwar Hossain and attended by education administration officials, local representatives and delegates from various education boards.