The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has found itself embroiled in controversy over the inclusion of a caste category field on this year’s examination hall tickets. Parents, teachers, and students strongly criticised the move, arguing it could lead to unnecessary caste-based discrimination and undermine students' dignity. In response to the backlash, the board has now announced the withdrawal of the caste column late Saturday evening, expressing regret and respect for public sentiment.

The issue arose when hall tickets for the upcoming Secondary and Higher Secondary School Certificate examinations included students' caste categories, such as OBC, ST, and SC. This sparked widespread criticism from opposition parties, education experts, and teachers, who questioned the rationale behind the decision. Critics argued that the practice could lead to discrimination and overshadowed the board’s routine preparations for the crucial exams.