The Attorney General (AG) informed the Supreme Court today (2 December) that the Cabinet of Ministers has recommended awarding free marks to all students for three questions allegedly leaked in the 2024 Grade 5 Scholarship Examination.

Solicitor General Viraj Dayaratne, representing the AG, stated that the Cabinet concluded it was unnecessary to re-conduct the examination, citing potential stress for students. The AG has filed a motion requesting the petition on the matter be heard before a full bench of Supreme Court judges. The hearing is scheduled for 11 December.

The Fundamental Rights petition, which seeks to halt the release of exam results and cut-off marks, was taken up by the court today.

The controversy began on 20 September when investigations uncovered the alleged leak. Following protests and parental concerns, two individuals—a member of the question paper committee and a tuition teacher—were arrested and remain in custody. On 14 October, the Commissioner General of Examinations announced that free marks would be granted for the affected questions.

The Supreme Court later issued an interim order in November preventing the release of results until further notice.