Though a week has already been passed since the leakage of question paper for a PhD entrance test in the Berhampur University, the authorities have failed to zero in on the mastermind behind the leak.
Sources confided that some employees, including a senior level functionary in charge of the test, are involved in the scam. Notably, some employees, whose sons, daughters and relatives were to appear the entrance test, particularly to pursue doctoral research in MBA course, are suspected to have been involved in the leakage apparently to benefit their wards. On the other hand, sources suspect that a deal might have been made for the leakage of the question papers as some well known businessmen, including a renowned hotel owner, were to face the test.
In the meantime, Vice Chancellor Prof Deepak Kumar Behera has constituted a panel to probe the incident which is expected to submit its report by March 2. If the panel finds involvement of any teachers or employees, stern action will be taken against them, assured Prof Behera.
Notably, 112 students from different parts of the State were to appear the test in the university for PhD programme, but due to leakage of question paper, the university administration had to cancel it. The university will announce a fresh date for holding the examination.
Meantime, the university administration has withdrawn the power to conduct the test from the PG Council Chairman, while the V-C would personally supervise it.
PG Council Chairman Prof AK Panigrahi is not available in the headquarters on the pretext of some official work. Consequently, there is no progress in the investigation onto the leak incident.