The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has officially closed its investigation into the suspected leak of the UGC-NET paper from the June 18, 2024, exam, concluding that there was no evidence of a larger conspiracy. The probe, which had been launched following rumors of a paper leak circulating on the darknet, found that the issue was tied to a doctored screenshot that had been manipulated by a student hoping to make a profit.
The UGC-NET exam, held to determine the eligibility of candidates for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and assistant professorships in India, was marred by controversy when reports emerged suggesting the question paper was leaked. These claims led to the exam’s cancellation on June 19, 2024, just one day after it took place. It was reported that the leaked paper had been made available on Telegram, causing widespread panic among more than 11 lakh registered candidates.
After the cancellation of the exam, the Ministry of Education referred the case to the CBI, which immediately registered a First Information Report (FIR). The investigation included forensic analysis and expert consultations to uncover the truth behind the alleged leak. The findings were released in a detailed report, which was subsequently shared with the Union Ministry of Education.
According to officials involved in the probe, the leaked paper that circulated online was not an actual leak but a doctored document. A young student had used an app to modify the timestamp on the image and circulated it to create the impression of a leak. The doctored screenshot was shared in Telegram channels shortly before the second shift of the exam, giving the impression that it had been accessed before the exam began.
“The individual responsible for this manipulation aimed to create a false narrative to exploit candidates. This act misled many but did not benefit anyone during the examination itself,” said a senior CBI officer who requested anonymity.
The CBI’s investigation ultimately concluded that no organised leak had occurred, nor was there any evidence of a larger conspiracy that would have benefitted any candidate. Since the evidence did not support claims of a real paper leak or a planned fraud operation, the case was officially closed.
Forensic experts consulted during the investigation confirmed that the screenshot circulating on Telegram was a digitally altered image. Additionally, it was revealed that the individual who created and shared the doctored image had done so to exploit the situation and make money, not to assist any candidates in cheating.
The closure of the investigation brings some clarity to the situation. However, it also raises questions about the effectiveness of preemptive measures taken by authorities to safeguard the integrity of such important exams. While the probe did not uncover any systemic corruption, it has highlighted the potential for misuse of digital tools in manipulating exam materials.
The UGC-NET exam is held biannually, with candidates appearing in both June and December for this highly competitive exam, which plays a critical role in academic careers. Last year, the exam registered over 11 lakh candidates, making it one of the most significant assessments in India.
In light of the CBI’s findings, the government is expected to continue its focus on preventing future incidents involving the integrity of national exams. Moving forward, the importance of both technological safeguards and vigilance against digital manipulation is paramount to ensuring a fair and transparent examination process for all candidates.
