Centre Opposes Scrapping Entire NEET-UG 2024 Exam, Cites Lack of Proof for Large-Scale Confidentiality Breach

NEW DELHI: On Friday, the Centre submitted an affidavit to the Supreme Court, arguing against canceling the entire NEET UG 2024 exam held on May 5. The Centre stated that there is no evidence of a large-scale breach of confidentiality. The affidavit mentioned that canceling the exam would “seriously jeopardize” the efforts of many honest candidates who took the test.

The Centre emphasized that without proof of a widespread breach in a nationwide exam, it would not be reasonable to scrap the entire exam and its results. The affidavit highlighted the government’s commitment to conducting all competitive exams fairly and transparently. It acknowledged the importance of keeping question papers confidential and stated that any criminal activity compromising this confidentiality should be dealt with strictly and legally.

The government also stressed the need to protect the interests of the majority of students who did not engage in unfair practices. “Scrapping the entire exam would seriously jeopardize the lakhs of honest candidates who attempted the question paper in 2024,” the Centre added.

The Centre also mentioned that the CBI is investigating all allegations of irregularities, including conspiracy, cheating, impersonation, and breach of trust. The Supreme Court is scheduled to hear several pleas on July 8, including those alleging irregularities in the May 5 exam and requesting a re-examination.

On June 13, the Centre and the National Testing Agency (NTA) informed the court that they had canceled the grace marks awarded to 1,563 candidates. These candidates were given the option to retake the test or forgo the compensatory marks given for the loss of time. After the re-test held on June 23, the NTA announced the revised rank list on July 1. An unprecedented 67 students scored a perfect 720, with six from a center in Haryana, raising suspicions about possible irregularities. It was alleged that the grace marks contributed to these 67 students achieving the top rank.

Protests have erupted in several cities over these allegations, leading to political clashes among rival parties.