WBSSC rolls out advanced security in SLST question papers for teacher recruitment: Check details here

As the West Bengal School Service Commission (WBSSC) gears up for the School Level Selection Test (SLST) on September 7 and 14, an estimated 5.65 lakh candidates are set to compete for 35,726 teaching positions across classes 9-12.

The examination has attracted significant attention, not just for the sheer number of aspirants, but also for the unprecedented security measures introduced to ensure transparency and fairness. In light of past controversies, the commission is leaving no stone unturned to maintain the integrity of the recruitment process.The SLST is a crucial gateway for candidates aspiring to join the teaching workforce in West Bengal, especially after the Supreme Court labelled the 2016 recruitment process as “tainted and vitiated.”

With heightened scrutiny, unique security features embedded in the question papers, and strict adherence to the apex court’s directives, students need to be fully aware of all procedural and safety protocols. According to PTI, WBSSC Chairman Siddhartha Majumdar has emphasized that every step has been taken to prevent malpractice, ensuring that candidates can focus solely on their performance.

1. Every question paper comes with unique security features

According to PTI, WBSSC Chairman Siddhartha Majumdar stated at a press meet, “Unique identification security features will be embedded with every question paper, which will be able to identify every candidate and in case of any malpractices that will be immediately detected through an alert at the monitoring room, where the candidate concerned will be identified and appropriate follow-up steps taken.”

This measure ensures transparency and deters any attempts at cheating.

2. No ‘tainted’ candidates will sit the exam

Following the Supreme Court’s directive, the WBSSC has barred 1,806 previously ‘tainted’ teachers from the exam, as reported by PTI. Majumdar emphasized that the commission has “already taken necessary steps with regard to enforcing the SC order in totality, which includes these issues as well.” Students can expect a clean and fair testing environment.

3. Strict timings and early reporting required

Candidates must reach exam centres by 10 AM, two hours before the scheduled start. Majumdar informed PTI, “While the last time before entering the exam centre will be 11:45 am, the tests will start at 12 noon. The question papers will reach the exam centre by 10:30 in a sealed envelope.”

4. Electronic devices strictly prohibited

Apart from pens provided at the centre, no electronic devices or mobile phones are allowed. Even officials and venue supervisors must deposit their mobiles at the cloakroom.

This step is part of WBSSC’s intensified security measures to prevent malpractice.

5. Barcode scanners will monitor admit cards

All candidates will pass through a barcode scanner at the entrance, ensuring the authenticity of each admit card and preventing impersonation. Majumdar clarified to PTI, “All admit cards are termed provisional in any exam.”

6. Two phases, millions of candidates

Approximately 3.19 lakh candidates will appear for assistant teacher posts for classes 9-10 across 636 centres on September 7.

The remaining 2.46 lakh candidates will compete for classes 11-12 on September 14 in 478 centres, summing up to 5.65 lakh candidates in total.

7. Safety measures are non-negotiable

Responding to allegations of a question paper racket, Majumdar told PTI, “What we can say with certainty is that all safety measures have been taken to prevent any illegalities as per the SC order, and we don't apprehend any breach or violation of rules. Let the first phase exams be over, and you will see.”

8. Legal action against misinformation

Paschim Medinipur police have already arrested a person spreading false information about the sale of question papers, highlighting the commission’s commitment to maintaining exam integrity.

9. Know your exam centres and materials

Candidates should familiarise themselves with their respective centres and arrive prepared with only approved materials, mainly pens provided at the venue. Early reporting allows ample time for verification and security checks.

10. Confidence and integrity are key

With robust monitoring, unique security features, and SC-backed safeguards, students can focus on performance rather than worry about procedural loopholes. Integrity and preparation remain the best tools to succeed in this highly competitive exam.