Supreme Court Denies NEET-UG Retest Amid Integrity Concerns

The Supreme Court of India has recently concluded its hearings regarding the NEET-UG examination, decisively ruling against the request for a retest. This decision came after a thorough examination of claims surrounding a potential leak of the question paper and other alleged irregularities associated with the exam conducted on May 5, 2024.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, leading a three-judge bench, articulated that there was insufficient evidence to substantiate claims of a systemic breach affecting the integrity of the examination process. The court reviewed data from the National Testing Agency (NTA) and a report from IIT Madras, both of which indicated that any leaks were not widespread. The Chief Justice emphasized that a retest would not only disrupt the academic progression of the approximately 24 lakh students who participated but could also have broader implications for medical education and the availability of qualified professionals in the field.

While acknowledging that there were confirmed instances of a question paper leak in Hazaribagh and Patna, where 155 students were identified as beneficiaries, the court noted that the investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is still ongoing. The court stated that should the CBI’s findings reveal a greater number of individuals involved in the malpractice, appropriate action would be taken against them.

Additionally, the court addressed concerns regarding a question in the NEET paper that had two correct answers, directing the NTA to adjust results based on the correct option identified in the IIT Delhi report. The Chief Justice also made it clear that petitioners dissatisfied with the ruling retain the right to seek further legal remedies.

This ruling underscores the court’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the examination process while balancing the interests of the students and the educational system at large.