UGC NET Exam Cancellation Based on Fabricated Screenshot, Finds CBI

The CBI's investigation into the alleged UGC-NET paper leak has found that the screenshot that led to the Ministry of Education's cancellation of the exam was fabricated, revealing that the cancellation was based on a doctored piece of evidence, reported The Indian Express. The screenshot of the supposed leaked question paper shared on Telegram is believed to be fabricated and created using an external application.

Further investigation by the CBI, according to the report has revealed that a school student used an application to create a false screenshot of the original question paper, falsely backdating it to June 17. This falsified image was then circulated on social media, misleading many to believe it had been leaked before the exam. The student allegedly profited from this deception by offering to provide future exam papers for a fee. The CBI has confirmed that the screenshot in question was manipulated to falsely indicate its availability before the actual examination took place.

A chain of events that unfolded:

- Chatter about the leaked paper surfaced on Telegram channels around 2 pm on June 18, just after the first session of the UGC-NET.

- This information was flagged by the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre under the Ministry of Home Affairs, which promptly alerted the University Grants Commission.

- Based on this input, the Union Education Ministry decided to cancel the exam later that evening.

The Indian Express further reported that the CBI has informed the Ministry of Education of these findings. However, it remains uncertain whether the cancellation decision will be reversed. Meanwhile, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced tentative dates for a retest between August 21 and September 4.

As reported by The Print, the authenticity of the falsified screenshot was examined by the National Forensic Sciences University in Gandhinagar, which confirmed its fraudulent nature. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the case. The CBI continues to analyze digital trails and other evidence to compile a comprehensive report, which is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.​​