NEET UG 2024 SC hearing today : Will the Supreme Court order a re-test?

Modified On Jul 11, 2024 10:23 AM by Mahaveer, Views: 16

The Supreme Court is set to announce its verdict on the ongoing National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG 2024 case tomorrow, July 11, 2024. During the hearing on July 8, 2024, the Apex Court recognized the compromised nature of the examination due to a paper leak. The central issue to be addressed in tomorrow's hearing is whether the Supreme Court will mandate a retest for NEET UG 2024.

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) UG 2024 has been marred by significant controversy, including allegations of question paper leaks, concerns over "grace marks," and overall integrity issues with the examination. Tomorrow, July 11, all eyes will be on the Supreme Court as it delivers its verdict on whether a retest will be ordered.

During the hearing on July 8, 2024, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud expressed reluctance towards ordering a retest for the nearly 23 lakh students who took the exam. He highlighted the financial strain it would impose on economically disadvantaged families. The Chief Justice emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough investigation and receiving a comprehensive report before making a final decision.

The Supreme Court outlined several parameters it will consider in determining whether a retest is necessary:

1. The extent to which the alleged breach occurred systemically.
2. The impact of the breach on the integrity of the examination process.
3. Feasibility of identifying and separating candidates who benefited from any fraud from those who did not.
4. The decision to order a retest would hinge on the severity and widespread nature of the breach, especially if it is impossible to differentiate between affected and unaffected candidates.

This year, the NEET UG 2024 examination was conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on May 5, 2024, for over 23 lakh students across India and a few centers abroad. Concerns about irregularities surfaced soon after, leading to petitions and protests.

The controversy intensified when 67 students achieved a perfect score of 720, prompting questions about the fairness of the results and allegations of "grace marks." Subsequent demands for revaluation and investigations gained momentum, eventually reaching the Supreme Court.

On June 10, several candidates filed petitions in the Supreme Court, supported by political leaders, urging a thorough investigation. The apex court issued notices to the NTA and the Central Government, seeking their responses.

While the Supreme Court did order a retest for 1,563 students who reportedly received "grace marks," it refrained from mandating a nationwide retest for all candidates. Instead, it focused on investigating localized incidents and ensuring fairness in the examination process.

As the Supreme Court prepares to announce its decision on July 11, stakeholders await clarity on the future of NEET UG 2024 and the potential implications for the students involved.