Plagiarism Consequences in Indian Academic Research: A Review of the Copyright Act 1957 and UGC Regulations 2018

Abstract

The paper aims to review the consequences of plagiarism in academic research through the lens of the Indian Copyright Act of 1957 and UGC Regulations on Plagiarism, 2018. By tracking its historical roots and classifying it into intentional and unintentional forms, this review discusses the multifaceted nature of plagiarism. In this study, the Indian Copyright Act's legal framework is examined focusing on the provisions that deal with copyright infringement and the associated penalties. At the same time, it examines the UGC Regulations 2018, which highlight the role and responsibilities of the Institutional Academic Integrity Panel (IAIP) in implementing the rigorous standards for identifying and penalizing plagiarism in academic institutions. The article further highlights a wide range of plagiarism consequences in the light of the mentioned Act and Regulations, from academic sanctions like degree revocation and professional ruin to criminal penalties like fines and imprisonment. It also discusses ways to prevent plagiarism and promotes ethical technology use, legal framework awareness, and appropriate citation practices. Finally, the review affirms that strict institutional and regulatory frameworks, along with awareness and ethical conduct, are necessary to prevent plagiarism and to carry on academic integrity in India.