A new rule has been implemented by the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) to prevent misuse of the NRI Ward category by professional course seat aspirants following fraudulent attempts last year.

As per the circular issued by KEA, payment of fees will have to be made directly to KEA from the sponsor’s account. This year, KEA has also made it compulsory for NRI ward quota claimers to get the family tree certified from respective tehsildars. Last year, over 500 applications claiming seats under NRI ward were received by KEA, of which 320 were found eligible. But, 14 candidates had submitted fake documents to claim NRI ward quota.

Last year, students had tried to submit sponsorship – during the seat allotment process – from those not directly related to them.

The new rule is aimed to prevent such misuse, besides benefiting genuine candidates with blood relative sponsors.

A circular from KEA said: “In case the candidate finds it difficult to transfer the amount immediately, then they can submit a Demand Draft (DD) for the same amount to KEA and get their admission order. The DD will be returned as soon as the sponsor transfers the amount.” – editor@nrifocus.com