Maharashtra's CET Cell defines malpractice in age of computer-based test, AI

MUMBAI: The use of AI tools, hidden cameras, screen mirroring, smartwatches or any remote-access software during any CET conducted in the state may lead to canellation of candidature for the entire year and/or legal action under the new regulations aimed at preventing malpractice in examinations.

For the first time, the Maharashtra State CET Cell has clearly defined what constitutes malpractice in the computer-based entrance tests it conducts, with particular emphasis on the misuse of technology and AI tools. The cell has also specified the punishment for 13 different forms of malpractice in the regulations released ahead of this year's entrance exam season. Earlier, the rules were not clearly defined and mostly followed the provisions of the Maharashtra Prevention of Malpractices Act.

After an inebriated candidate created a ruckus last year, the CET Cell has introduced a clause providing for the immediate expulsion and cancellation of candidature for entering the examination centre under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.

An official said that regulations for malpractices always existed, but they were generic and did not specify any measures for computer-based tests. Of the exams conducted by the CET Cell for 17 courses, 15 are in the CBT format, mentioned a note issued by the office. "The revised regulations will address malpractices carried out using digital, cyber and AI technology. There was a committee which looked into the aspects of malpractices during exams and they have come out with specific guidelines," said the official.

CET Cell commissioner Dileep Sardesai said the regulations were specified and published on the website well before the exams to ensure that the severity of the penalties acts as a deterrent, and to prevent students from claiming they were unaware of rules. He said some of the provisions are drawn from the regulations followed by some universities in the state, such as the Mumbai University.

Even candidates found talking, giving signals, exchanging gestures or trying to communicate during an exam will call for the cancellation of their candidature for that exam. No legal action, though, will be initiated in such cases.

Some of the rules that were specified in hall tickets earlier only mentioned prohibition on notebooks, calculators, pagers or mobile phones. While earlier rules specified that instances of providing incorrect information would amount to malpractice, now altering or falsifying biometric data has been included too.

The CET cell also framed regulations for the examination centres and made it mandatory for them to install CCTV, conduct biometric verification and maintain strict vigilance, failing which their recognition could be temporarily or permanently revoked, or will also include suspension of staff and imposition of financial and administrative penalties.