June 22nd 2024.
In an event on Saturday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan addressed concerns regarding the National Testing Agency (NTA) and its top leadership. There have been allegations of irregularities in the competitive exams NEET and NET, which have raised questions about the integrity of the exams. In light of these concerns, Pradhan assured the public that the NTA is under scrutiny and any misconduct will be dealt with accordingly.
Pradhan, who is also responsible for safeguarding the interests of students, emphasized the importance of considering their futures before making any decisions. He acknowledged the ongoing controversy surrounding the medical entrance exam NEET, but stressed that it would be unfair to jeopardize the hard work and success of the thousands of candidates who rightfully cleared the exam.
In regards to the recent postponement of the June edition of the Joint Council of Scientific and Industrial Research and UGC-NET, Pradhan clarified that it was due to logistical issues and not a paper leak. This particular exam is used to determine eligibility for junior research fellowship and assistant professor positions, as well as admission to PhD programs in science courses.
When questioned about any inquiries into the NTA's role in the matter, Pradhan admitted that there has been an institutional failure and he has taken responsibility for it. He also acknowledged that there are concerns surrounding the top leadership of the NTA, but stressed that his priority is to ensure the best interests of the students.
Pradhan also addressed the ongoing investigation into the alleged paper leak in NEET, which prompted the ministry to seek a report from the Bihar Police. He assured that anyone found involved in any irregularities will face consequences and stressed that the ministry is taking the matter seriously.
Shifting the focus to a separate incident in Godhra, Gujarat, Pradhan clarified that the issue was not a paper leak but rather organized cheating. As a result, 30 students have been debarred. He also mentioned that these cases are not isolated, as 63 students from across the country were also debarred from NEET for using unfair means.
The Centre has faced criticism for the alleged irregularities in competitive exams, with both NEET and NET being under scrutiny. While the medical entrance exam was allegedly leaked, the UGC-NET was cancelled a day after it was conducted due to concerns about the integrity of the exam. Both cases are being investigated by the CBI.
To ensure fair and transparent conduct of future exams, the education ministry has formed a seven-member panel led by former ISRO chief K Radhakrishnan. Additionally, a new law has been put in place to prevent malpractice and irregularities in competitive exams, with strict penalties of up to 10 years in jail and a fine of Rs 1 crore for offenders.
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