KCET: KEA admits to mistake after Deccan Chronicle points out tech glitch

BENGALURU: It was the last date to apply for online corrections in the Karnataka Common Entrance Test 2018 application, but a technical glitch left many applicants confused.

Many parents who took their children’s applications for correction were left wondering about a new column that is meant for claiming quota under the minority category for medical and dental courses. The application suggested that all the applicants, whether they belong to minority category or not, have to mandatorily pick the religious minority or linguistic minority status in the 15th column of the KCET application. As there was no other option given, the parents and their wards were confused. A panic-like situation prevailed as Saturday was also the last day to carry out the corrections.

Applicants told Deccan Chronicle that it was not part of the application form earlier, but has been made mandatory this time. Mrs K.C. Ramesh, a parent from general category, said, “Saturday is the last day for online correction of CET application and without selecting either option in the 15th column, the application cannot be submitted. I am confused as we don’t belong to either category.”

After Deccan Chronicle pointed out the problem, the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) clarified that it was a technical glitch. KEA Administrative Officer S.N. Gangadharaiah told Deccan Chronicle, “These options are for minority categories, and those who don’t belong to any category don’t have to fill it.”

He clarified that if there are any technical issues, the authority will look into them and clear them soon.