23 July 2024, NEET UG Case, New Delhi:
The Supreme Court of India has decided against ordering a re-exam for the NEET UG 2024, despite acknowledging that the question paper was leaked at examination centers in Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh and Patna, Bihar. The verdict, delivered by a bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, stated that there was no substantial evidence of a systemic breach that would necessitate such a drastic measure.
Court’s Reasoning
The Supreme Court emphasized that ordering a re-test for an exam taken by 24 lakh aspiring medical students would have significant consequences. Many candidates had traveled long distances to take the test of NEET UG, highlighting the logistical and emotional burden a re-test would impose.
“At the present stage, it is difficult to come to a conclusion that the entire system has been vitiated or that the sanctity of the exam has been breached,” the court stated. This conclusion was drawn after careful consideration of the available data, which did not indicate a widespread compromise of the examination process.
Acknowledgement of Localized Leaks
Chief Justice Chandrachud did recognize the reality of the paper leaks at two specific centers. The leaks in Hazaribagh and Patna were undeniable, with the Hazaribagh incident being identified as ‘Ground Zero’ by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The CBI has been investigating a nationwide ‘solver gang’ responsible for these leaks, which involve organized efforts to manipulate exam results.
Despite these localized breaches, the court found no sufficient grounds to conclude that the overall integrity of the NEET UG 2024 exam was compromised.
Impact on Students
The decision brings relief to a vast majority of students who had taken the exam without incident. Requiring a re-test would have been a significant disruption, not only for the students but also for the educational institutions involved in the process.
Government and Judicial Response on NEET UG
The Supreme Court’s decision aligns with the government’s stance on maintaining the continuity of the examination schedule. This ruling comes after the NTA, under new leadership and following multiple reforms, had already republished the results with greater transparency as directed by the Supreme Court.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has previously emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing any failures within the system. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted the serious approach taken to prevent future leaks and ensure the integrity of examinations.
Ongoing Investigations
The CBI continues its investigation into the paper leaks, focusing on the individuals and networks involved in the ‘solver gang’ racket. Arrests have been made, and the agency is working to prevent future breaches.
The Supreme Court’s directive to publish city-wise and center-wise results, while masking candidate identities, was a step towards ensuring transparency and addressing concerns raised by various petitions.
Conclusion
While the localized paper leaks in Hazaribagh and Patna raised significant concerns, the Supreme Court’s decision underscores the importance of evaluating the broader impact on the examination system. By ruling out a re-exam and focusing on targeted actions against those involved in the leaks, the judiciary aims to balance fairness with practical considerations for the vast number of students affected.
The ruling reaffirms the need for stringent measures and reforms within the NTA and other examination bodies to safeguard the integrity of crucial national exams like the NEET UG, ensuring a fair opportunity for all candidates.
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