In a significant disciplinary action, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) in Indore has imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakh on the Idyllic Institute of Management for its involvement in a recent exam paper leak scandal. The decision, announced on Wednesday, follows an investigation into the leak of a Master of Business Administration (MBA) exam paper last month.
The Idyllic Institute of Management, chaired by Akshay Kanti Bam—a prominent figure who recently switched allegiance from the Congress party to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)—was found culpable in the leak of the "Quantitative Techniques" question paper. The breach came to light when the paper was circulated on social media before the scheduled exam on May 25.
On June 7, local police arrested a computer operator and two students from the institute, who were implicated in the leak. The arrests followed a detailed investigation, which revealed their direct involvement in the unauthorized distribution of the exam paper.
In response to the incident, DAVV's working council took decisive action by imposing a hefty fine and stripping the college of its status as an examination centre for the next three years. This move aims to uphold the integrity of the examination process and sternly warn other institutions about the severe repercussions of such misconduct.
Furthermore, DAVV has established a committee to evaluate whether the Idyllic Institute of Management should continue to be affiliated with the university. Before making a final recommendation, this committee will thoroughly review the circumstances of the paper leak, the institute’s role in it, and its overall adherence to university standards.
The incident sparked considerable controversy given Akshay Kanti Bam's political affiliations and recent shift to the BJP. As chairman of the institute's governing committee, his connection to the scandal has attracted significant public and media attention, raising questions about governance and oversight at educational institutions linked to political figures.
The paper leak has also highlighted broader concerns regarding exam security and the measures to prevent such breaches. DAVV's swift and stringent response underscores the university's importance of maintaining the credibility and fairness of its academic assessments.
As the committee conducts its review, the future of the Idyllic Institute of Management’s affiliation with DAVV hangs in the balance. This episode serves as a reminder of the critical need for vigilance and integrity in the administration of educational institutions. The committee’s findings will likely have significant implications for the institute and set a precedent for handling similar cases.
In the meantime, the academic community in Indore and beyond is closely watching the developments, hoping for a resolution reinforcing the values of honesty and accountability in higher education.