Printed answers found in mass cheating at Rajasthan college, exam cancelled

A flying squad inspection at Vishwa Bharati College in Sikar found students allegedly using printed answer sheets and solving a PGDCA paper in groups. The university cancelled the first-shift examination and began action against the centre as it investigates the case.

In Short

• University vigilance team found students allegedly writing the paper in groups
• Printed answer sheets and other cheating material were recovered during inspection
• The entire incident was videographed before evidence was handed to administrators

A routine PGDCA examination at Vishwa Bharati College in Sikar took an unexpected turn when a flying squad from Jagatguru Ramanandacharya Rajasthan Sanskrit University arrived for a surprise inspection.

The university's vigilance team found several students allegedly cheating inside the examination halls. According to the university, some students were sitting in groups and solving the paper together instead of attempting it individually.

The inspection also led to the recovery of cheating materials and printed sheets containing answers from students. The entire incident was videographed by the team, with the evidence later handed over to the university administration.

The findings prompted immediate action. The university cancelled the first-shift PGDCA examination conducted at the centre. The second-shift examination, however, was subsequently held.

PRINTED ANSWERS, GROUP SOLVING AND A CANCELLED PAPER

Following the incident, the university began the process of suspending Vishwa Bharati College as an examination centre. It has also initiated proceedings to determine the role of the students allegedly involved as well as the examination centre.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Madan Mohan Jha has directed the examination department to take strict action against the college. Controller of Examinations Dr Shubh Kumar Jha issued the order cancelling the first-shift examination.

The university has also appointed a member of its flying squad as an observer to monitor examinations held at the centre in the future.

The action comes as the university takes a stricter approach towards examination malpractice. Officials have indicated that anyone found guilty will face action under the applicable rules.

SECOND CHEATING CASE IN FIVE DAYS

The Sikar incident is not an isolated case for the university. It comes just five days after another alleged mass-cheating case was detected during a PGDCA examination at MD PG College in Lalsot on August 7.

The latest incident has therefore raised fresh concerns over examination security and the effectiveness of monitoring at affiliated centres.

For now, the university is investigating the incident at Vishwa Bharati College. The students caught during the inspection and the examination centre's role are both under scrutiny.

The university's final action will depend on the findings of the investigation. However, the cancellation of the paper and proposed suspension of the centre signal that the administration is treating the alleged malpractice seriously.

(With inputs from Sushil Joshi)

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