# KEA mulls three-layer OMR sheets to curb exam malpractices

2026-09-28T00:11:27+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 2 independent outlets

The Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) is considering introducing three-layered Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) sheets for recruitment examinations to prevent tampering and malpractices. The proposed system adds a third copy to be stored securely at the district deputy commissioner's office until the recruitment process ends. KEA executive director H Prasanna said the authority trialled the system during a recent Karnataka State Reserve Police constable exam and may extend it to other exams. Currently, recruitment bodies use double-layered OMR sheets. The move follows allegations of OMR manipulation in Karnataka Public Service Commission exams. The Karnataka High Court has formed a Special Investigation Team to probe irregularities, while the Enforcement Directorate and Criminal Investigation Department have also investigated. The third copy is meant to provide an independent record for verification if tampering allegations arise.

## Indian Opinion Analysis

The Hindu leads with the trial and the detailed quote from Prasanna explaining the third copy's purpose and disposal timeline, giving the proposal institutional heft. Times Now frames it more broadly as a response to corruption concerns, but omits the disposal detail. Both sources agree on the facts and the need for reform, but The Hindu provides more concrete procedural specificity. The wider context is the credibility of Karnataka's recruitment process: the real test will be whether the High Court's SIT findings and the ED's investigations result in convictions or systemic changes.

## Coverage

- thehindu.com (neutral report) <https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/karnataka-examinations-authority-considers-introducing-three-layer-omr-sheets-for-recruitment-exams-to-prevent-malpractices/article71512960.ece>
  Led with the trial and official quote, straightforward procedural story.
- timesnownews.com (neutral report) <https://www.timesnownews.com/education/karnataka-recruitment-exams-may-get-three-layer-omr-sheets-to-prevent-malpractices-article-156240459>
  Framed as broader anti-malpractice effort, no critical slant.

Tags: Bengaluru, H. Prasanna, Karnataka Examinations Authority, Karnataka High Court, Karnataka Public Service Commission
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Cite: https://indianopinion.org/karnataka-mulls-triple-layer-omr-sheets-to-stop-exam-fraud/#story-in-brief