25 BHU research papers retracted in 5 years amid integrity and AI concerns
International journals have retracted at least 25 research papers linked to BHU researchers over the last five years. The case has sharpened focus on research integrity, AI disclosure and data verification in universities across India.
At least 25 research papers linked to Banaras Hindu University (BHU) have been retracted over the past five years, according to data compiled from Retraction Watch, an international database that tracks withdrawn scientific publications and research integrity concerns.
The retractions span multiple disciplines including medicine, life sciences, environmental science and engineering. The withdrawn papers appeared in recognised international journals published by major academic houses such as Elsevier, Springer Nature, Frontiers and PLOS.
Among journals with multiple BHU-linked retractions were:
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules – 2 retractions
PLoS One – 2 retractions
Bioinorganic Chemistry and Applications – 2 retractions
Other journals carrying retracted BHU-linked studies include ACS Omega, Nanotechnology, Brain Research, Journal of Hazardous Materials, Frontiers in Pharmacology, and Environmental Earth Sciences, among others.
The reasons behind retractions vary but repeatedly include:
Image duplication or manipulation
Questions over authorship
Data inconsistencies
Methodological errors
Plagiarism concerns
Problems in analysis or verification
Integrity-related issues linked to publication processes
Retraction does not always imply deliberate misconduct; papers may also be withdrawn because findings cannot be verified or substantial errors emerge later.
However, a growing number of retractions globally has intensified scrutiny around research practices, particularly as publishers confront AI-assisted writing tools, fabricated peer reviews and organised “paper mills.”
The issue arrives as Indian institutions seek stronger international research standing while funding agencies move towards stricter disclosure norms. Recent policies increasingly ask researchers to report previous retractions and clarify the use of AI in academic work.
For BHU, one of India’s oldest and most recognised universities, the figure of 25 retractions in five years raises broader questions not only about publication pressure, but also about oversight, reproducibility and research integrity in higher education.