“Didn’t Cancel NEET-UG 24 Exam As There Was No Systematic Breach”: SC

The Supreme Court on Friday has clarified that it didn’t annul the NEET-UG 2024 examination, despite concerns about a potential paper leak, because there was no substantial evidence of a systematic breach compromising its integrity.

In a detailed explanation of its July 23rd order, a bench comprising Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra highlighted that the National Testing Agency must avoid inconsistent actions, as observed this year, as they are detrimental to students’ interests.

The bench provided several directives and broadened the scope of the Centre-appointed committee led by former ISRO chief K Radhakrishnan to review the NTA’s operations and propose examination reforms.

With the expanded mandate, the committee is expected to submit its report by September 30, detailing measures to address deficiencies in the examination system. The bench emphasized that the Radhakrishnan panel should consider establishing standard operating procedures for incorporating technological advancements to fortify the examination system.

The bench insisted that the issues arising from the NEET-UG examination should be resolved by the Centre.

On July 23, the Supreme Court dismissed pleas for the cancellation and re-examination of the contentious test, stating that there was no evidence to suggest that the exam was “vitiated” due to a “systemic breach” of its integrity.

The Supreme Court, while delivering the order, mentioned that detailed reasons would be provided later. This interim decision provided relief to the embattled NDA government and the NTA, which faced severe criticism and protests, both publicly and in Parliament, over allegations of widespread malpractices, including question paper leaks, fraud, and impersonation in the prestigious exam conducted on May 5.

Over 23 lakh students appeared for the NEET-UG 2024, aiming for admissions to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other related courses.

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