Petition Against Re-NEET: 56 Candidates Urge Supreme Court to Prevent NEET-UG 2024 Cancellation

In a significant development, 56 medical students from Gujarat have filed a petition in the Supreme Court, opposing the calls for re-conducting the NEET-UG 2024 examination. The petitioners argue that the results of the NEET-UG 2024 should stand, except for those candidates who engaged in unfair practices during the exam.

Historical Context

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is a pivotal examination for medical aspirants in India, determining admissions to undergraduate medical courses. Historically, NEET has faced challenges, including allegations of paper leaks and malpractices, which have led to calls for re-examinations in the past. The current situation echoes similar controversies, highlighting the ongoing struggle to maintain the integrity of this crucial examination.

Key Points of the Petition

1. Continuation of Current Results: The petitioners request that the medical admissions proceed based on the existing results, excluding those who cheated.
2. Fundamental Rights: They argue that a re-exam would be unfair to honest students and violate their fundamental rights under Articles 14 (Right to Equality) and 21A (Right to Education) of the Indian Constitution.
3. Mental Stress: The petition highlights the anxiety and stress caused by media coverage and the uncertainty surrounding the potential re-exam.
4. Identification of Malpractices: The petitioners call for an investigation to identify and penalize those involved in malpractices, such as paper leaks and impersonation.

Supreme Court’s Role

The Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, is set to hear the petitions challenging the alleged malpractices in the NEET-UG 2024 on July 8. The petitioners seek the following reliefs:

• Prevent Cancellation: A writ to restrain the NTA from cancelling the NEET-UG 2024 exam and its results.
• Investigate Malpractices: A directive for the NTA to investigate and take action against those involved in fraudulent activities.
• Additional Reliefs: Any other orders deemed appropriate by the Court.

Other Petitions and Government Actions

Several other petitions have been filed, alleging widespread malpractices in the NEET-UG 2024, including paper leaks and arbitrary grant of grace marks. The Union government has decided to cancel the grace marks of 1563 candidates and has set up a high-level committee to recommend reforms in the examination process and data security protocols.

Summary

• Petition Filed: 56 Gujarat-based students filed a petition in the Supreme Court against re-conducting NEET-UG 2024.
• Fundamental Rights: The petitioners argue that a re-exam would violate their rights under Articles 14 and 21A.
• Mental Stress: Media coverage and uncertainty are causing significant stress to the students.
• Investigation Demanded: The petitioners seek an investigation into malpractices and strict action against those involved.
• Supreme Court Hearing: The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear the petitions on July 8.
• Government Actions: The Union government has cancelled grace marks for 1563 candidates and set up a committee for examination reforms.

This comprehensive overview provides students preparing for competitive exams with a clear understanding of the ongoing legal and administrative proceedings related to NEET-UG 2024.