Itanagar, May 21, 2025, Virthli (ONP): Itanagar Capital Police have apprehended 53 candidates in connection with a sophisticated mass cheating operation during the Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti (NVS) recruitment examinations held on May 18. The tests, administered by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), were for positions including Lab Assistants and Junior Secretariat Assistants (JSA).
Authorities revealed that the accused employed advanced electronic devices, specifically GSM-enabled gadgets fitted with SIM cards and microphones. These illicit tools were reportedly concealed within candidates' undergarments and activated by a double button press, allowing them to communicate with remote handlers via micro earpieces discreetly placed in their ears. Police noted that some candidates attempted to activate these devices under the pretext of using restrooms before the examination commenced.
The arrests followed timely tip-offs from school authorities who observed suspicious conduct involving a candidate during the examinations. Subsequent police action led to the seizure of multiple electronic devices, including SIM cards and micro earpieces, from the implicated individuals.
Preliminary investigations have traced the origin of the cheating syndicate to Haryana, indicating a broader network that targeted examination centers not only in Itanagar but also in Dimapur, Chandigarh, and other cities.
The arrested candidates face charges under several key legislations, including the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Information Technology (IT) Act, and the recently enacted Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024.
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Currently, forensic analysis of the confiscated equipment is underway. Police have identified principal handlers and middlemen involved in orchestrating the scandal, and additional teams have been dispatched to Haryana to pursue and apprehend the alleged masterminds behind the racket.
Police officials confirmed that the CBSE has been fully apprised of the incident and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
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