New Delhi: A major controversy has erupted in Madhya Pradesh’s Samrat Vikramaditya University after a question from their Foundation Course examination paper went viral. The question was referring to Allah and was in the paper of third-year BCom, BBA and BCA students.

The exam was conducted on Monday, and the question has stirred a political and social debate with protests, allegations and an official inquiry is underway. The controversy is centred around Question No. 45 in the paper, which was, “There is no one other than Allah,” and the options to choose from were Someshwar, Khuda, Shaktivan and “the one who punishes”.

The question drew attention after it was flagged by a student, which led to widespread outrage after it surfaced publicly.

Protests against paper

Several organisations, particularly the right-wing groups, have opposed it strongly, calling it inappropriate and alleging that it’s an ideological bias. Protests were reported at multiple locations, and demands were raised for strict action against the person responsible.

A few leaders went as far as claiming that the question was not an error but rather it was a well-thought-out attempt to influence by a certain narrative. The protestors warned of large agitation if no action is taken against the same.

Response from the university

The university administration reacted actively to resolve the situation. The matter has been referred to the Examination Committee to review the question and its context.

The committee will examine whether the question was as per the prescribed syllabus and academic framework and whether due process was followed before putting it in the paper.

University Registrar Anil Kumar reveals that if any question is found controversial or inappropriate, it is referred to the Examination Committee. Along with that, it has also been referred to the subject experts, who will determine whether the question aligns with the prescribed syllabus or not and who bears the responsibility for it.

What happens next?

If an error is detected, then the examiner who set the paper will be sent a notice and disciplinary action will be taken if necessary. The final decision will be made only after investigating the matter thoroughly.

The Vice-Chancellor has reportedly asked for an explanation from the Controller of Examinations. If the question turns out to be inappropriate, then the university will consider removing it from the evaluation process and will see how marks will be calculated for the examination.