NEET UG 2024 Controversy: Education Minister Forms High-Level Panel to Review Workings of NTA

New Delhi: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has taken the ‘moral responsibility ‘ for any loss of confidence among students in NEET UG 2024 exam during a press conference on June 20, 2024. He has announced it in reference to Bihar’s investigation into allegations of paper leak. Along with this, the Union Minister has also announced the formation of a high-level committee to fix responsibility within the National Testing Agency (NTA) and review its structure and functioning.

“I take moral responsibility for this,” Pradhan said at a press conference. “We have to secure the future of this country. We will have to maintain quality and transparency. We will have to honour the hard work of students who come from poor backgrounds.”

The press conference was held amid questions about the credibility of the National Testing Agency in the backdrop of irregularities in two examinations: the National Eligibility-Cum-Entrance Test for admission to undergraduate medical courses and the University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test for the post of assistant professor in universities and colleges.

According to sources, based on preliminary evidence from Bihar Police, the government is of the view that the irregularity that occurred “was limited” to some areas and may not merit a country-wide retest of the exam. “One of the options being considered is to hold a retest for candidates of just the affected test centres,” said a source.

When probed further if NEET would be cancelled, Pradhan said the country should not hold the future of many candidates from rural areas hostage for “some isolated incidents”.

“According to preliminary information received from Bihar Police, some errors have happened but they are limited to specific regions. I want to assure you, after getting all information and evidence, we will take strict action against the culprits,” he told reporters. The government would not shy away from even taking action against NTA officials irrespective of their position and seniority, he said.

In a recent event, NTA had cancelled the UGC NET 2024 Exam owing to ‘paper leak’ in some centres. This has raised concerns among students on the capability of the exam conducting body and its workings. The Union Minister has commented that review of the allegation is being conducted and the re-exam will be conducted soon. 

Latest Updates on NEET Controversy:

• Is NEET UG 2024 Cancelled? SC to Hear Paper Cancellation Pleas on July 8
• NEET UG 2024 Re-Exam Admit Cards Released for 1563 Candidates; Check Details Here

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