The Centre has informed the Supreme Court of its commitment to implementing the recommendations of a seven-member expert panel tasked with reviewing the National Testing Agency's (NTA) conduct of the NEET UG 2024. This decision comes as part of broader efforts to reform examination procedures and ensure transparency and security in future tests.
Background on the Review
The Supreme Court had earlier refused to annul the NEET UG 2024 examination, despite controversies over alleged malpractices. The Court found insufficient evidence to suggest systemic leaks or breaches that compromised the test's integrity. In response, the Centre expanded the mandate of the expert panel, led by former ISRO chief K Radhakrishnan, to conduct a comprehensive review of the NTA's operations.
The panel's key objectives included addressing security breaches, streamlining administration, enhancing data protection, and integrating technological advancements.
Supreme Court's Role and Observations
A bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Manoj Misra heard the Centre's submission on Thursday. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court that the government would adopt all corrective measures proposed by the panel. The Court has adjourned the matter for three months, scheduling the next hearing for April 2025.
The report, still under review, includes sensitive details such as the printing and transport of examination materials. The Supreme Court had previously extended the panel's deadline to October 21, 2024, following revelations of lapses in the NEET UG 2024 administration, including:
- A security breach at a Hazaribagh, Jharkhand exam center, where the rear door of a strongroom was opened, compromising question papers.
- Question papers transported using e-rickshaws.
- Distribution of incorrect question paper sets to candidates.
Panel’s Mandate and Recommendations
The expert committee, chaired by K Radhakrishnan, includes distinguished members such as Randeep Guleria, B J Rao, Ramamurthy K, Pankaj Bansal, Aditya Mittal, and Govind Jaiswal. Its expanded mandate covers:
- Strengthening examination security and administration.
- Enhancing data protection and adopting advanced technologies.
- Policy and stakeholder engagement to foster collaboration.
- Mental health support for students and training programs for NTA staff.
NEET UG 2024: A Look Back
In 2024, over 23 lakh students appeared for NEET UG, competing for admissions to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and related courses. Despite controversies, the Supreme Court upheld the validity of the examination in its August 2 verdict. A subsequent petition seeking a review of this decision was dismissed in November 2024.
Next Steps
With the Centre pledging to adopt the panel’s recommendations, significant reforms are expected in the administration of NEET UG and other national-level examinations. The Supreme Court will review the progress in April 2025.
(With inputs from PTI)
