Fearing that copycats could rely on smartwatches to cheat in the examination, the Karnataka Secondary Education Examination Board on Thursday announced that no student wearing smartwatches will be allowed to enter the examination hall during the forthcoming SSLC exams.

In its circular to all the DDPIs across the state, the board has banned the use of smart watches during exams.

The board will only allow analog and mechanical watches inside the exam hall.

The board, in its circular, has urged the DDPIs to communicate the same to parents and students. V Sumangala, Director of the Board told DH that anybody found violating the order will be dealt with severely.

“It will be the responsibility of the examination centre in-charge officials to identify students wearing any smart watches.

“If anybody found violating the rule, a stern action will be initiated against them,” she said.