PHIDIM: Question papers are found to have been leaked from most of the exam centres during the ongoing SLC examination in Panchthar district through cell phones. The question papers of mathematics and science were leaked by the students through SMS in collusion with security forces and examination employees.

The question papers of mathematics and science from Phidim Higher Secondary School, Namuna High School, Bharapa, Yangnam, Nangin and Yasoka were leaked half-an-hour after the start of the examination. According to eyewitnesses, the question papers were passed outside the exam centres by the examinees in collusion with invigilators and security forces. Answers were sent through SMS and other means, they informed.

Superintendent Pushpa Prasad Bhandari of Phidim Higher Secondary School exam centre admitted that cellphones might have been used for irregularities though he had banned their use during the examination. He lamented that mobile phones might have been taken inside the exam hall even though exam employees were prohibited from carrying cell phones in the exam centres. An eyewitness, on condition of anonymity, said, "Answers are passed to the examinees through invigilators and security personnel after they are written by their relatives ."

Arjun Niroula, District Education Officer, said they would adopt strict measures to prevent unfair practices, as leaking questions was a serious matter.