Allegations of Malpractices in NEET UG 2024:
Yesterday, the Supreme Court heard multiple pleas regarding the NEET UG 2024 examination. The concerns included allegations of unfair practices and a significant paper leak. One of the key issues raised was the decision by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to award grace marks to 1563 candidates due to lost exam time.
The Supreme Court’s Detailed Examination of NEET UG Paper Leak Allegations:
A three-judge panel, comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, examined petitions seeking to cancel the entire NEET UG 2024 exam due to alleged malpractices and paper leaks. The Central Government and the NTA opposed the demand to cancel the exam, arguing that the malpractices were isolated incidents and did not justify jeopardizing the futures of numerous students.
The petitioners, however, contended that the paper leak was widespread, affecting the exam’s integrity. They sought a complete retest. The Supreme Court questioned the nature and extent of the paper leak, considering the possibility of a NEET UG re-exam if the breach was systemic and widespread.
Also read: Candidates Contest Re-Exam Decision in Supreme Court
The Supreme Court’s Interim Order and Future Actions:
During the hearing, the Supreme Court outlined several directives for the NTA and the Central Government:
- The NTA must provide detailed information about the nature, extent, and timing of the leak.
- The CBI must submit a status report on the investigation, detailing the FIRs and identifying any beneficiaries of the leak.
- The government should consider setting up a multi-disciplinary team of experts to ensure the integrity of future exams.
The Court emphasized the need for transparency and timely action to maintain the NEET exam’s credibility. The next hearing is scheduled for Thursday, with a comprehensive set of submissions to be filed by the petitioners.
Also read: NEET UG 2024 Counselling Deferred Until Further Notice
In conclusion, the proceedings highlighted the complexities involved in addressing the alleged malpractices in NEET UG 2024, with the Supreme Court seeking to balance the integrity of the exam process with the interests of millions of students.
