Bhubaneswar, Feb 21: In a troubling incident from Odisha's Dhenkanal district, a Class 10 student was reportedly denied entry to the ongoing matriculation examination due to non-payment of a ₹200 fee. The incident occurred at Rasol Government High School in the Hindol block, sparking widespread outrage and prompting an official inquiry.

The student, identified as Gautam Behera, belongs to the Scheduled Tribe community and comes from an economically disadvantaged family. According to allegations, Behera was not allowed to appear for the first day of the matriculation exam due to the unpaid fee, and as a result, he did not receive his prescribed dress code and admit card. The headmaster of the school is accused of denying Behera the opportunity to sit for the exam, despite the student’s eligibility and efforts to appear for the board examination.

This incident has raised serious concerns over how a nominal fee could prevent a deserving student from taking part in a crucial examination that could impact his academic future. Many are questioning the fairness of such practices, particularly when students from low-income backgrounds face additional hurdles to accessing education.

The district administration has taken swift action, with officials launching an inquiry into the matter. They are currently reviewing the allegations made by Behera’s family, along with statements from the school authorities. The inquiry will determine whether any violations occurred, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.

Meanwhile, the second day of the matriculation board examination is underway, with students appearing for the English paper. This year, a total of 5,61,979 students are taking the examination across the state, with exams being conducted at 3,082 centres. The exams begin daily at 9 a.m.