Four individuals, including teachers and exam staff, face charges for allegedly using ChatGPT to aid students in cheating during the Maharashtra Class 12 board exams . The incident occurred on February 18 at exam centre 18, JK Bomanwar High School in Chamorshi, Gadchiroli district. Police officials confirmed the charges.
The malpractice was discovered during a surprise inspection. A peon, Suraj Kelzarkar, allegedly photographed question papers immediately after they were unsealed. He then shared these images via WhatsApp with teacher Mahendra Kirame. Kirame reportedly used ChatGPT to generate answers. These AI-generated answers were then printed and distributed to students.
Suspicion arose when a flying squad, led by Gadchiroli Zilla Parishad CEO Suhas Gade, noted many students submitted identical answers. This prompted an investigation.
Investigation Reveals Scheme
The probe confirmed that examination centre staff were involved. They facilitated the transmission of question papers and provided printed answer sheets to students. The cheating reportedly spanned multiple subjects. These included physics, chemistry, and political science.
FIR Filed and Action Taken
An First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against the four accused. The accused include teachers, the exam centre in-charge, and the peon. Some staff members have also been suspended from their positions, according to reports.
The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has been notified. Officials stated that stricter monitoring measures will be implemented. This aims to prevent future misuse of technology in examinations.