Maharashtra State CET Cell defines malpractice in era of computer-based tests and specifies punishment

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 the loss of an academic year for the candidate 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, without specifically addressing issues related to computer-based tests. Since this year two attempts are provided for three courses, over 17 lakh candidates are expected to take the exams.After a candidate arrived at the examination centre in an inebriated condition last year and created a ruckus, the CET Cell has introduced an additional clause providing for the immediate expulsion and cancellation of candidature if a candidate is found carrying weapons, explosives, or sharp objects, or enters 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 official website well before the exams to ensure that the severity of the penalties acts as a deterrent against candidates indulging in malpractices, and to prevent students from claiming that they were unaware of the rules. He added that some of the provisions are drawn from the regulations followed by some of the universities in the state, such as the Mumbai University.Even candidates found talking, giving signals, exchanging gestures or attempting to communicate during the exam will call for the cancellation of their candidature for that particular exam. No legal action, though, will be initiated in such cases. Some of the rules that were specified in hall tickets earlier only mentioned notebooks, calculators, pagers or mobile phones, which are now outdated. 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.