The Supreme Court, on Tuesday, dismissed a plea to cancel the NEET-UG 2024 examination conducted on May 5, despite reports of a paper leak. While acknowledging the leak in Hazaribagh and Patna, the apex court ruled that there was no evidence of a systemic breach in the exam process. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, along with Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, stated that the current evidence does not suggest that the exam results are compromised or that there was widespread leakage of the NEET-UG question paper.
The court’s decision has sparked reactions from politicians across the spectrum. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut expressed disappointment, questioning the court’s understanding of the situation and the direction it offers in the face of such incidents. Congress MP Pramod Tiwari, while reserving his detailed reaction, questioned the exam’s sanctity in the light of the paper leak. VCK MP Thol. Thirumavalavan termed the court’s decision “shocking news” and argued that it was not in favor of the affected students, suggesting an appeal as the only solution.
On the other hand, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan hailed the Supreme Court’s decision, stating that “Satyamev Jayate, truth prevailed.” He emphasized the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards exam breaches and highlighted the stringent laws implemented, including the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act. Pradhan further mentioned the establishment of a high-level committee to revamp the NTA, which is dedicated to ensuring a transparent and error-free examination system. He assured the youth and students of the country that strict legal action will be taken against those involved in the irregularities, with the CBI actively investigating the matter.
Union MoS (Education) Sukanta Majumdar echoed the Minister’s sentiments, welcoming the court’s order and reiterating the Ministry’s commitment to follow the court’s decisions. He emphasized the government’s stance of complete transparency and the ongoing investigation by the CBI. Majumdar highlighted the CJI’s observation regarding the lack of evidence for a large-scale leak or breach in the procedure, emphasizing the integrity and transparency of the government and NTA. He expressed relief for the students who were anxious about the situation.
JMM MP Mahua Maji, while refraining from commenting on the court’s decision, expressed a desire for justice for the students. She highlighted the recurring incidents of paper leaks and urged the government to take the matter seriously to ensure that students’ futures are not jeopardized by such occurrences.
