CAT 2009: Virus claim may trigger litigation

MUMBAI: With the online CAT to the IIMs turning chaotic — admission tests were cancelled at nearly 14% centres across the country owing to technical glitches — cyber experts say pinning of the blame on a virus attack may have worsened things for applicants.

Cyber guru Vijay Mukhi said the official explanation of a virus would open the doors for students to question the exams and approach courts to have it cancelled. ‘‘It could set a dangerous precedent if anyone goes to the court and court grants a stay,’’ he told, even as he questioned the virus claim. Cyber law advocates said a technical glitch is one thing, but admitting to a virus attack shows the online system may be tough to handle for authorities. Rajiv Kumar, a well-know lawyer, said the cancelled exams would give rise not only to question of inequality, but also denial of equal opportunity.