27 Apr. 24: In an alarming revelation, two professors at a state university in Uttar Pradesh’s Jaunpur have been suspended for their involvement in allowing students to pass exams by inscribing “Jai Shri Ram” and cricketers’ names on their answer sheets.
The investigation into this matter was prompted by Divyanshu Singh, a former student of Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University, who filed an RTI seeking re-evaluation of answer sheets of 18 first-year pharmacy course students. Singh alleged that Professors Vinay Verma and Ashish Gupta accepted bribes to facilitate the passing of these students.
Upon scrutiny, it was found that students who had written slogans like “Jai Shri Ram” and names of cricketers were awarded passing grades or over 50 percent marks, indicating irregularities in the examination process.
Prompt action was taken by the state Governor’s office, ordering an investigation on December 21, 2023. An enquiry committee was formed by the university administration, and external evaluation of the answer sheets was conducted, revealing significant discrepancies.
Vice-Chancellor Vandana Singh confirmed that the recommendation for the dismissal of the two professors involved in the erroneous evaluation process had been made. Additionally, disciplinary measures are imminent, with action expected against Professors Vinay Verma and Ashish Gupta.
This incident underscores the importance of maintaining integrity and fairness in academic assessments. The university awaits further directives from the Governor’s office to proceed with the dismissal of the implicated professors, signaling a commitment to upholding educational standards and transparency in evaluation processes.
