Odisha Civil Services Exam: Candidate Caught Cheating with Tech Assistance

In a shocking incident during the Odisha Civil Services examination, a candidate was arrested for using a smartphone and wireless earbuds to cheat. Abhishek Rout was caught red-handed at a private engineering college, leading to the arrest of three accomplices who were assisting him from outside the examination center. This incident raises serious concerns about examination integrity and the lengths some individuals will go to in order to succeed. The authorities are taking strict action against all involved, highlighting the ongoing battle against cheating in competitive exams.

By Ambika Singh Jun 8, 2026, 16:08 IST

Cheating Incident at Odisha Civil Services Exam

Cuttack: A candidate participating in the Odisha Civil Services (OCS) examination, organized by the OPSC, was apprehended for allegedly using a smartphone and wireless earbuds to cheat. Three accomplices were also arrested for their involvement, according to police reports on Monday.

The individual, named Abhishek Rout, was caught during a routine check at the examination venue located in a private engineering college within the jurisdiction of Markatnagar police. He was swiftly escorted out of the examination room and handed over to law enforcement.

Investigators revealed that Rout had hidden a smartphone in his trousers and was wearing an earbud to receive answers during the test. Upon inspection, an earbud was found in his ear, and the concealed smartphone was retrieved from his clothing.

Authorities also noted that a phone call was active during the inspection. Three individuals outside the examination center were allegedly searching for answers online and relaying them to Rout via phone.

The police subsequently arrested Rupesh Jha, Alex Raj Pani, and Soumya Ranjan Sahu for their roles in facilitating Rout's cheating. All four individuals were later presented in court.