IIT Bombay: Will the 2015 exam rules return? Will students get a chance to present their side before action is taken?
The IIT Bombay Senate took a significant decision on Wednesday regarding the rules concerning the use of unfair means during examinations. A consensus was reached during the meeting to revert to the regulations that were in place in 2015. The most notable change is that a student will now be given an opportunity to present their side before any disciplinary action is initiated against them. According to officials, this decision follows a review by a committee constituted on September 18—after the death of a student—to examine the procedures for handling cases involving unfair means in exams. The committee had recommended changes to the existing system.
What were the provisions under the 2026 rules?
Under the rules implemented at IIT Bombay in 2026, students found using unfair means during exams could face penalties such as an 'FR2' grade and suspension for one semester. These rules covered instances such as possessing or using unauthorized materials or electronic devices; mobile phones, tablets, and smartwatches fell within this ambit. Repeat offenders could also face suspension. In contrast, under the 2015 rules, suspension was primarily reserved for serious offenses such as mass copying, repeated violations, or impersonation (taking the exam on behalf of another person).
What did the 2015 rules entail?
The 2015 system followed a specific procedure when unfair means were detected during an examination. If an invigilator found unauthorized material with a student, the material was confiscated, and the student was allowed to continue the exam after being provided with a new answer booklet. Subsequently, a report on the matter was prepared and submitted to the Head of the Department. The department's Academic Disciplinary Committee would then investigate the case. Based on the available evidence, the committee would determine whether unfair means had actually been employed during the examination. There was also a provision to give the student the benefit of the doubt if the evidence was inconclusive.
How will students be able to present their side now?
The Senate has decided to introduce an additional form into this process. Under the new provision, if a student is accused of using unfair means during an exam, the invigilator or teacher must record full details of the incident in a form before disciplinary proceedings begin. The student will also be allowed to record their version of events. However, filling out this form will not be mandatory for the student; if a student does not wish to present their case this way, they can refuse to fill out the form and refute the allegations using their own method.
What will the new procedure be for students?
A joint committee comprising both faculty and students at IIT Bombay is drafting a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). Under this, students facing allegations might be allowed to consult their faculty guide and welfare advisor before formal disciplinary action is initiated. This review follows protests that erupted after the death of a second-year student on September 18. Students had expressed concern over the handling of disciplinary cases related to exams and demanded changes to the system.
Which examination practices raised concerns?
According to a faculty member, concerns among students centered on practices such as searches and surprise interventions by examination squads. They noted that these procedures were not part of the 2015 system. These specific practices had heightened concerns regarding how students were treated during exams. The institute had implemented stricter rules regarding unfair means in exams in July 2026, including a provision for a one-semester suspension. A review of these rules was initiated following the September incident and the subsequent protests.
When will the November examinations take place?
The academic calendar for IIT Bombay has also been approved during the Senate meeting. According to the approved calendar, examinations will be held from November 10 to November 21. The examination period will span a total of 13 days, with exams scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays as well. However, the institute has not yet issued any official notification to students or the media regarding this Senate meeting or the changes made to the examination rules.
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