Ramgarh Administration Launches Probe into JEE Main Computer Manipulation Scam
The Ramgarh administration has initiated a comprehensive investigation into alleged manipulation of computer systems at a private university designated as a centre for the JEE (Main) examination, which is set to commence from Thursday. This decisive action follows the arrest of three individuals by police on Sunday, including a computer operator, for their suspected roles in attempting to tamper with the university's computer infrastructure.
Police Seize Evidence and Make Arrests in Coordinated Operation
In a swift operation, law enforcement authorities confiscated 70 computers and 3 central processing units (CPUs) from the university's computer lab, along with 3 mobile phones and a sports utility vehicle (SUV). The arrested persons have been identified as Dinesh Kumar Mahto, who served as a computer operator; Suraj Kumar Singh; and Shakir Ansari, according to Naveen Prakash Pandey, the officer in-charge of Ramgarh police station.
Deputy Commissioner Faiz Aq Ahmed Mumtaz confirmed that the arrests were made subsequent to a formal police complaint lodged by Nirmal Kumar Mandal, the registrar of the university. "We have directed Ramgarh sub-divisional officer (SDO), Anurag Kumar Tiwari, to conduct a thorough enquiry into the alleged irregularities and submit his findings at the earliest," stated the DC, underscoring the urgency of the matter.
University Officials Uncover Suspicious Activity During Civic Event
B N Sah, the chairman and chancellor of the university, provided detailed insights into the incident. He revealed that the university was hosting a civic action programme on Sunday when staff members noticed an SUV parked near the C block, adjacent to the computer lab. "Upon inspection, computers were observed inside the vehicle. As our staff approached to enquire, the driver attempted to flee, but campus guards had already secured the gates," Sah explained.
The university promptly alerted the police, leading to the arrival of additional vehicles outside the campus. During subsequent questioning by authorities, the full extent of the scheme emerged. Sah disclosed that one of the individuals involved was a staff member responsible for cleaning and maintaining the lab. He further noted that the perpetrators had brought 65 computers and installed 11 dummy systems, indicating a premeditated plan to interfere with the examination process.
Preliminary Findings Suggest Large-Scale Exam Fraud Racket
Sources within the Ramgarh administration indicated that initial investigations point to a large-scale attempt to manipulate JEE (Main) results by assisting candidates who allegedly paid substantial sums of money. "The modus operandi suggests an organised setup aimed at ensuring select candidates clear the exam. Investigators are currently probing the potential involvement of an interstate gang believed to be operating such fraudulent rackets," a source revealed.
Ramgarh subdivisional officer Anurag Tiwari commented on the situation, stating, "There were clear indications of a setting, but fortunately, it was detected before it could be fully executed. The National Testing Agency has been informed and will conduct its own independent probe to uncover the complete truth."
Similarities to Previous NEET Irregularities Raise Concerns
A police officer in Ramgarh, speaking on condition of anonymity, drew parallels between this case and last year's NEET irregularities reported in Hazaribag. "The pattern appears strikingly similar. In the coming days, we anticipate major revelations, and the names of several influential persons may also come to light," the officer added, hinting at broader implications. Further investigation is actively underway to determine the full scope of the scam and identify all parties involved.
