June 16th 2024.
Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the NEET medical entrance exam, former HRD minister Kapil Sibal has called for a thorough investigation by officials appointed by the Supreme Court into the alleged irregularities. He also urged the government to hold consultations with all states to determine the future of this exam.
In an interview with PTI, Sibal expressed his disappointment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's silence on the issue and criticized the National Testing Agency (NTA) for allowing corruption to take place. He highlighted the recent incidents in Gujarat where question paper solutions were allegedly provided to students, calling it a matter of national concern. Sibal urged the NTA to address these serious allegations and provide answers to the public.
He also pointed out that the NEET regulation was introduced by the Medical Council of India (MCI) in 2010, when he was not the HRD minister but the MCI was under the Ministry of Health, not education. Sibal clarified that the regulation was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2013, but later allowed through a review petition in 2014. He also mentioned that the NEET exam was introduced through legislation by the BJP government in 2016, replacing the Indian Medical Council Act.
Sibal criticized Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan for denying any paper leaks or rigging in the exam, stating that the minister should be more concerned about the allegations rather than dismissing them. He also highlighted the issue of corruption in exams throughout the country and stressed the need for a thorough inquiry to be conducted by an independent agency or officers selected by the Supreme Court.
Sibal also called for a consensus to be reached between the central government and all states on how medical admissions should be conducted in the future. He expressed his intention to raise this issue in parliament and urged all political parties to do the same, as it affects the lives of young people in the country.
The NEET exam, held on May 5 across 4,750 centers, saw the participation of around 24 lakh candidates. However, there have been allegations of question paper leaks and other irregularities in various states. Sibal emphasized the need for addressing these issues and ensuring a fair and transparent examination process.
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