Maharashtra CET Cell bans AI tools, gadgets to curb cheating in exams

In an effort to prevent cheating and misuse of technology the State Common Entrance Test CET Cell has introduced revised rules and stricter regulations for upcoming entrance examinations conducted across MaharashtraThe new guidelines are aimed at curbing malpractice involving digital devices cyber tools and artificial intelligence AI during computerbased testsStricter monitoring for computerbased CET examsThe CET Cell conducts entrance examinations for 17 different professional courses of which 15 are held in computerbased mode at designated examination centres across MaharashtraOfficials said the updated regulations are intended to strengthen the examination system and ensure transparency and fairness Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against candidates exam staff or institutions found involved in any form of malpractice misconduct or use of unfair means during the examination processSmartphones smartwatches and digital gadgets prohibitedUnder the revised rules the use or possession of modern digital gadgets inside the examination hall is strictly prohibitedThe banned items include smartphones mobile phones smartwatches Bluetooth devices earphones and calculators where they are not permitted Officials said these restrictions have been imposed to prevent candidates from accessing external information or communicating during the examAI tools hidden cameras and remote access software bannedThe CET Cell has also specifically banned the use of artificial intelligence tools and other advanced digital technologies that could be misused during examinationsThese include AIbased applications hidden cameras screen mirroring technology remote access software and any other digital tools that may facilitate cheating during the examinationStrict penalties for cheating and misconductThe CET Cell has identified 13 categories of misconduct with penalties varying depending on the seriousness of the violationCandidates found talking gesturing or attempting to communicate with others during the examination will have their candidature for the ongoing CET cancelledSimilarly candidates copying from notes books or other candidates or allowing others to copy electronically or physically will face cancellation of candidature for the CET as well as other CET exams in the same academic year in addition to possible legal actionPossession of prohibited devices will lead to disqualificationIf candidates are found carrying phones smartwatches Bluetooth devices or other prohibited gadgets the devices will be confiscated and their candidature will be cancelledIn cases where impersonation is detected such as another person attempting to appear for the exam on behalf of a candidate the candidature of both individuals will be cancelled and legal action will be initiatedSharing exam questions outside the hall will attract legal actionSending or attempting to send exam questions or answers outside the examination hall through notes electronic devices or social media platforms will result in immediate cancellation of candidature and legal proceedingsAuthorities also warned that mass copying organised cheating or collusion among candidates could lead to cancellation of the results of all candidates involved following an investigation Examination centres found facilitating such activities may also face penaltiesTampering with documents or bringing weapons strictly prohibitedThe rules also prohibit alteration of admit cards identity documents or biometric records which will lead to immediate cancellation of candidatureCandidates entering the examination centre with weapons explosives sharp objects alcohol or drugs will face instant disqualification and legal actionStrict accountability for examination centresThe revised guidelines also place greater responsibility on examination centres conducting CET exams in 2026Centres must ensure CCTV surveillance biometric verification of candidates and strict monitoring during examinationsIf any centre is found negligent or involved in malpractice the CET Cell may suspend its accreditation temporarily or permanently take action against staff members involved or impose financial and administrative penalties