Centre opposes cancellation of NEET-UG 2024 cites absence of large scale breaches of confidentiality
- In Reports
- 08:58 PM, Jul 05, 2024
- Myind Staff
On July 5th, the Centre filed an affidavit with the Supreme Court opposing the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2024 exam, citing that the results have already been declared. The government's position emphasised the establishment of a panel aimed at proposing measures for the fair administration of future exams. They argued that without substantial evidence of widespread breaches of confidentiality in a nationwide examination, it would be unreasonable to nullify the entire exam and the already published results. This stance underscores their commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process while addressing concerns raised.
The government further stated that the Ministry of Education has established a High-Level Committee of Experts following the recent examination. This committee's primary mandate is to recommend robust measures aimed at ensuring transparent, seamless, and equitable conduct of exams conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The committee's formation underscores the government's commitment to enhancing the integrity and effectiveness of the examination process, addressing any concerns and challenges that may arise in future exams.
According to the government, the Committee chaired by Dr. K Radhakrishnan, former Chairman of ISRO and Chairman of the Board of Governors at IIT Kanpur, will focus on making recommendations for reforms in the examination process mechanism. This includes enhancing data security protocols and evaluating the structure and operations of the National Testing Agency (NTA).
The Committee has been tasked to submit its report within two months, reflecting the government's commitment to implementing comprehensive improvements in the conduct of examinations administered by the NTA.
After the Centre filed its affidavit, the National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting the NEET-UG examination, submitted another affidavit in response to a petition in the Supreme Court. The NTA affirmed that the alleged incident or attempt of a leak had minimal impact on the overall conduct of the exam held on May 5. They stated that the number of candidates implicated in the investigation is negligible compared to the vast number who appeared for the exam.
The NTA argued against scrapping the entire exam, asserting that such an action would unfairly penalise the lakhs of honest candidates who took the 2024 exam. They emphasised that the NEET-UG 2024 exam was conducted fairly and confidentially, without any illegal practices. The agency dismissed claims of widespread malpractice as entirely baseless, misleading, and lacking any factual basis. This position underscores their confidence in the integrity of the examination process and the results declared.
The NTA further clarified that the alleged malpractices were limited to specific centres in Patna and Godhra, and they reiterated their stance against cancelling the entire NEET-UG 2024 exam based on isolated incidents. The agency emphasised that such actions would unfairly impact all candidates, including those who took the exam honestly and without issue.
The Supreme Court is set to hear a series of petitions on July 8, including those alleging irregularities in the May 5 exam and requesting a fresh conduct of the exam. These allegations, particularly concerning paper leaks, have sparked protests in various cities and triggered disputes between competing political parties.
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