Dehradun Police Nab 17 in High-Tech Cheating Scandal at Navodaya Exam

In Dehradun, Uttarakhand, authorities arrested 17 candidates caught using Bluetooth devices to cheat during a competitive examination for the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti’s Lab Attendant position, administered by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The arrests occurred at two examination centers following a tip-off about illicit activities.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ajay Singh of Dehradun revealed that the suspects concealed the electronic devices in their shoes and other personal items. Police recovered 17 such gadgets during the operation. Three First Information Reports (FIRs) were filed at Kotwali Patel Nagar and Dalanwala police stations to address the incident.

The accused face charges under Sections 3, 4, 10, and 11 of The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, as well as Sections 318(4) and 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). These stringent laws, inspired by Uttarakhand’s anti-cheating regulations, impose severe penalties for exam malpractices.

SSP Singh noted that the police acted on confidential information regarding the cheating network. Ongoing interrogations aim to uncover the source of the Bluetooth devices and identify any additional individuals involved in the operation. The investigation continues as authorities work to dismantle the cheating racket.