Veer Madho Singh Bhandari Uttarakhand Technical University (VMSB-UTU), Dehradun, has cancelled two even-semester examinations following a suspected question paper leak involving an external paper setter. The university has ordered fresh examinations in the third week of August 2026 to safeguard the integrity of its examination system.

The cancelled papers are Machine Learning for Internet of Things (IOTT004) and Electromagnetic Field Theory (ECT043), conducted during the 2025–26 even-semester examinations.

Inquiry finds alleged breach of examination confidentiality

According to the university order, the decision was taken after a complaint regarding the Machine Learning for Internet of Things examination prompted the Vice-Chancellor to constitute a high-level inquiry committee.

The investigation, along with an internal inquiry conducted by Shivalik College of Engineering, Dehradun, found that Ashish Kumar Gupta, an Assistant Professor and external question paper setter, allegedly shared examination questions with students through the institute's internal portal and WhatsApp before the examination.

The university termed the alleged act a serious violation of the confidentiality, integrity, and academic standards of its examination process.

The inquiry further indicated a strong possibility that the Electromagnetic Field Theory (ECT043) paper, also prepared by Gupta, may have suffered a similar breach of confidentiality.

Fresh examinations to be held in August

To preserve the credibility of the examination system and protect students' interests, the university has cancelled both examinations with immediate effect.

The re-examinations are scheduled for the third week of August 2026, while the detailed timetable and examination centre list will be announced separately on the university's official website.

Affiliated colleges have been instructed to notify all affected students immediately and upload the university's order on their institutional websites to ensure students receive adequate time to prepare for the fresh examinations.

Faculty member barred for seven years

As part of the disciplinary action, the university has barred Ashish Kumar Gupta from undertaking any examination-related work for VMSB-UTU for seven years, with immediate effect.

The university also issued a strong warning to Shivalik College of Engineering, Dehradun, citing inadequate institutional monitoring and control mechanisms. The institute has been directed to strengthen oversight and ensure strict compliance with examination confidentiality norms to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The action comes amid increasing scrutiny of examination security across the country, with universities and testing agencies facing growing pressure to strengthen safeguards against question paper leaks and restore confidence in assessment processes.