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Puri: On Tuesday, reports emerged regarding the late start of annual examinations at various primary and upper primary schools within the Gop block of Puri district.

The examinations commenced on March 9 and are set to conclude on March 13. However, it was noted that several schools received their question papers later than expected, causing significant delays for students awaiting the start of their exams.

According to government regulations, exams are supposed to kick off at 7 am across all schools. Yet, many institutions experienced late starts due to the 'delayed arrival' of the question papers, as reported by sources.

Additionally, there were claims that some teachers arrived late to schools despite the early exam schedule, and in certain cases, headmasters were absent without prior leave notifications.

Sources indicated that numerous positions, including Block Education Officer and Additional Education Officer, have been vacant for an extended period in the block education office. This has resulted in inadequate oversight and contributed to these irregularities.

In response to the situation, Amita Senapati, who oversees the Block Education Officer’s office, acknowledged that minor delays in question paper distribution might occur due to the early morning exam schedule. However, she stressed the importance of teachers and staff arriving on time and assured that the complaints would be investigated.