CBSE Board Exams: Delhi HC Seeks Reply on Calculator Use in Class 12 Maths, Accountancy

Delhi High Court has issued notices to CBSE, NCERT and Union Government regarding a petition which asks for permission to allow Class 12 students to use calculators in board examinations.

As reported by ANI, a Division Bench headed by Acting Chief Justice Nitin Wasudeo Sambre and Justice Sanjay Sharma has issued notices to the concerned authorities. They have been asked to file their replies within six weeks.

This petition has been filed for permission to use basic non-programmable calculators in Class 12 Accountancy exam. Furthermore, it has sought permission from the court for an expert committee to examine whether the use of calculators is necessary in Mathematics examinations.

In the petitioners' arguments, it was mentioned that students devote much of their time in doing long and tedious calculations in Accountancy and Mathematics exams. As per the plea, it deprives the students of spending their time explaining the concepts they have learnt.

Further, the petition made a mention about a suggestion approved by CBSE Curriculum Committee in its 70th meeting held on November 25 and 26, 2024. The committee has recommended the use of basic non-programmable calculators in the Class 12 Accountancy exam.

What Does the Petition Say About Calculator Use?

It is contended by the petitioners that permitting use of calculators would be in compliance with NEP 2020 and National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023.

As per the petition, such policies lay emphasis on concept-based learning rather than learning through rote memory.

Further, it is contended by the petitioners that they had made a comprehensive representation to CBSE and other authorities concerning this matter and requested for their response. However, they did not get any reply within the prescribed period.

Afterwards, the petitioners filed their writ petition in Delhi High Court seeking direction on the said issue.

Has Delhi HC Allowed Calculators in CBSE Board Exams?

No. The Delhi High Court has not sanctioned the use of calculators in the CBSE Class 12 Board exams.

It has merely asked for the response of CBSE, NCERT, and the Union Government. Six weeks' time has been allotted to the relevant authorities to file their replies.

Thus, students must not entertain the belief that calculators will be allowed in the forthcoming CBSE Class 12 Board Examinations. The changes, if any, to the current examination guidelines will be decided by the relevant authorities in consultation with the court's directions.

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