Nagpur: The Maharashtra State Common Entrance Test Cell on Tuesday introduced new regulations to curb cheating in entrance examinations, explicitly targeting use of Artificial Intelligence tools, hidden cameras, screen mirroring, smartwatches and remote-access software during computer-based tests.The rules, released ahead of state’s annual entrance exam season, clearly define 13 forms of malpractice for the first time in the CET system and prescribe penalties ranging from cancellation of candidature to legal action.Officials said the move was prompted by the rapid shift to computer-based testing and growing misuse of digital technologies. Of 17 entrance examinations conducted by the CET Cell, 15 are now held in computer-based format, and more than 17 lakh candidates are expected to appear this year. The state also introduced 2 attempts for 3 courses.“Revised regulations will address malpractices carried out using digital, cyber and AI technology,” a CET Cell official said, noting earlier rules were largely generic and relied mainly on provisions of Maharashtra Prevention of Malpractices Act without addressing computer-based exams.Under the new framework, use of AI tools, hidden cameras, screen-mirroring applications or remote-access software during an exam could lead to cancellation of candidature for the entire academic year and possible legal action.CET Cell commissioner Dileep Sardesai said regulations were published in advance to ensure transparency and deterrence. “The rules were specified and published on the official website before exams so that severity of penalties is a deterrent and candidates cannot claim they were unaware,” he said. The rules also define several conventional forms of misconduct, including communicating with other candidates, giving signals or exchanging gestures during the exam, copying answers, allowing others to copy, impersonation and possession of unauthorised materials such as notes or books.Carrying electronic devices like mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices or earphones inside the examination hall will also be treated as malpractice.Even attempts to communicate with fellow candidates may result in cancellation of candidature for that particular exam, though legal action is unlikely in such cases. CET Cell also updated provisions that were previously outdated. Earlier, guidelines mentioned devices such as calculators, pagers or notebooks, but revised rules now include digital-era violations such as altering or falsifying biometric data.Also, regulations introduce a strict clause to address disruptive behaviour at exam centres. Candidates found carrying weapons, explosives or sharp objects — or those entering the examination centre under the influence of alcohol or narcotics — will face immediate expulsion and cancellation of candidature. Officials said the clause was added after an incident last year in which a candidate arrived at an exam centre in an inebriated condition.The new framework also outlines a detailed procedure for dealing with suspected malpractice. Invigilators are required to seize any unauthorised materials in the presence of the venue officer and record the incident in writing. Officials said rules would be reviewed periodically as examination technologies evolve.
