Authorities in the Indian state of Maharashtra have uncovered a conspiracy to cheat in a Class 12 examination using ChatGPT, leading to the suspension of four employees, including three teachers.
Preliminary investigations found that a photograph of the question paper was sent abroad during the examination. Individuals involved then searched for answers using ChatGPT, printed the responses, and attempted to deliver them to the examination center.
Exposed Through Surprise Inspection
The case came to light on February 18 at the J.K. Boman War Junior Science and Arts College examination centre in Chamurshi, located in Gadchiroli district, during the Class 12 political science exam.
Zilla Parishad chief executive officer Suhas Gade detected irregularities during a surprise inspection. Officials recovered micro notes related to the subject and printed answers generated from ChatGPT outside the examination centre. These findings exposed an organized attempt at mass copying.
Further investigation revealed that the photograph of the question paper was transmitted outside India while the examination was in progress. People involved searched for answers using ChatGPT and attempted to print and deliver them back to the centre.
The plan failed due to timely raids by authorities. In response, the CEO immediately formed an inquiry committee to investigate the matter.
Police Case Filed
Following confirmation of attempted mass copying in the committee’s report, a case was registered at Chamurshi police station. The complaint was filed by in charge group education officer, Sudhir Akhara.
Legal action has been initiated against three teachers and a peon, including the centre head. The education department issued orders to suspend all accused employees with immediate effect.
The incident has triggered concern within the education department of Gadchiroli district. Authorities have directed officials to strengthen surveillance and increase surprise inspections across all examination centres to prevent similar incidents.
