CBSE Refutes Rahul Gandhi's Allegations Against COEMPT Edutech Contract

CBSE Responds to Allegations

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has dismissed the claims made by Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, regarding the awarding of a contract to COEMPT Edutech. In a statement on social media, CBSE labeled the allegations as baseless, unfounded, and misleading. The board clarified that the contract was awarded following a complete and proper procedure, specifically for the digitalization of on-screen marking (OSM).

Details of the Contract Process

CBSE further explained that tenders for the digital evaluation of answer sheets for the 2026 board examinations were issued on August 28, 2025. The contract was awarded to the company after a formal tender was published on the central public procurement portal, ensuring that only qualified bidders received the contract.

Allegations by Rahul Gandhi

In response to concerns raised about the on-screen marking system, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the central government on Wednesday, questioning the awarding of the contract to COEMPT Edutech. He has called for an independent judicial inquiry by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) into the matter. Gandhi alleged that despite the company's poor track record, CBSE proceeded to award the contract and demanded transparency regarding the relationship between the company and the government.

Controversies Surrounding COEMPT Edutech

Rahul Gandhi also pointed out that COEMPT Edutech previously operated under the name Globarena. The company was embroiled in controversies during the Telangana board examinations in 2019 and 2023, which were also related to on-screen marking. The issues associated with the company were severe enough that they reportedly led to the tragic suicides of 23 students in Telangana.