FIA summons top-scorers in MDCAT inquiry

Unrealistic 97% scores cast doubt on test integrity

KARACHI:

As part of ongoing inquiry into the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) paper leak, Federal Investigating Agency (FIA) has summoned students who scored 97 percent marks in the test scrapped by the Sindh High Court over irregularities.

As per a letter issued by FIA Cyber Crime, the investigation into the MDCAT paper leak revealed that some students received more than 97 percent marks. The inquiry was initiated on the complaint of Bilawal Mallah from the Human Rights Justice and Defenders Organization.

During the investigation, it was discovered that some students secured 97.5 percent marks out of 200 marks in MDCAT. Apparently, it seems impossible for students to get such exceptional marks, which raised suspicions about the integrity of the medical colleges' admission process. There is a possibility that students are involved in the paper leak and aware of facts and circumstances leading to the paper leak.

The students, who were summoned by FIA, come from different higher secondary boards. The students were directed to appear at the FIA Cyber Crime Branch on November 1. FIA may conduct a mock test of the students as part of the investigation process. Students' statements will be recorded under Cr.Pc 160 to make the process transparent.

In case, the students fail to comply with the FIA notice, it will be assumed that they have nothing to present in their defence. Legal proceedings will then start on the basis of available evidence.

It is pertinent to mention here that the Sindh High Court had ordered retest of MDCAT in four weeks while hearing pleas against alleged irregularities in the test.

The fact-finding committee chairperson Shireen Narijo had presented a report in the court over MDCAT irregularities. She told the court that the committee found flaws in the MDCAT, and the system was compromised at various points. A team of 40 members was responsible to conduct MDCAT.