June 23rd 2024.
On Saturday night, the government made a significant announcement regarding the ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities in the NEET medical entrance exam. It was declared that the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) will now be in charge of conducting a thorough investigation into the matter. This decision was made amidst a series of actions taken against reported irregularities in various competitive exams, such as the removal of National Testing Agency (NTA) Director General Subodh Singh and the formation of a seven-member panel led by former ISRO chief K Radhakrishnan to reform the exam process.
According to a senior official from the Education Ministry, there have been reports of cheating, impersonation, and other malpractices during the NEET-UG exam held on May 5. In order to maintain transparency and ensure a fair examination process, it was deemed necessary to hand over the case to the CBI for a comprehensive investigation. The government is determined to maintain the integrity of these exams and protect the interests of the students. Any individual or organization found involved in such irregularities will face strict action, the official stated.
The NEET-UG exam was conducted on May 5 at 4,750 centers across the country, with a total of 24 lakh candidates appearing for it. The results, which were initially supposed to be announced on June 14, were declared on June 4. The allegations of irregularities have sparked protests in various cities, leading to legal action and political disputes. In fact, a fresh plea has been filed in the Supreme Court requesting an investigation by the CBI and Enforcement Directorate (ED) into the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG exam. The petition, filed by 10 students who had appeared for the exam, also urged the Bihar Police to expedite their investigation and submit a report to the apex court.
The Supreme Court had previously asked for responses from the government, NTA, and others regarding multiple petitions, including those seeking the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2024 exam and a court-monitored probe. The court had also put a hold on similar pleas filed in different high courts. It was reported that 67 students achieved a perfect score of 720, which is unprecedented in the history of NTA. Interestingly, six of these students belonged to a center in Haryana's Faridabad, leading to suspicions of foul play.
There was also a controversy surrounding the awarding of grace marks to some students due to the loss of time at six exam centers. However, the government later informed the apex court that the grace marks will not be considered, and these students will be given the option of a retest. On Sunday, the NTA will conduct a retest for 1,563 candidates. The NEET-UG exam is organized by the NTA for admissions to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other related courses in both government and private institutions across the country.
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