Amidst the ongoing controversy surrounding the leak of question papers for the NEET UG Exam 2024 and irregularities in its conduct, two teachers in Maharashtra have been detained. This development comes after four individuals were arrested in Bihar for similar charges related to the medical entrance exam paper leak. The Nanded Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) apprehended Sanjay Tukaram Jadhav and Jalil Umar Khan Pathan, both teachers at zilla parishad schools and proprietors of private coaching institutes in Latur. These detentions raise concerns about the extent of involvement in the leak and the potential exploitation of students seeking to enter medical colleges.
Following the Bihar arrests, investigations have focused on uncovering ‘solver gangs’ responsible for distributing leaked papers and facilitating proxy candidates for various exams. Recognizing the severity of the situation, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has been tasked with investigating the alleged irregularities in the NEET UG Exam 2024. The examination, held on May 5th across 4,750 centers, saw a participation of nearly 24 lakh students aspiring for admission to MBBS and other medical courses.
The controversy surrounding the NEET UG Exam 2024 escalated after allegations surfaced regarding paper leaks and the awarding of grace marks to over 1,500 students. These allegations ignited protests across various states, demanding accountability and transparency from the examination authorities. In response to the mounting pressure and concerns, the government has taken steps to address the situation. The Director General (DG) of the National Testing Agency (NTA), Subodh Kumar Singh, was removed from his position. A high-level panel of experts has also been constituted to ensure transparency and fairness in future examinations.
The Union Ministry of Education has established a high-level committee under the leadership of Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, former chairman of ISRO and IIT Kanpur. This committee, composed of experts in the field, aims to ensure the smooth, fair, and transparent conduct of examinations, rebuilding public confidence in the testing process and safeguarding the integrity of the education system.
