NEET-UG 2024: Scores Invalidated for 1,563 Candidates, Re-Exam Scheduled
Allegations of a paper leak and irregularities in the distribution of grace marks have stirred significant controversy surrounding the NEET-UG 2024 examination. These issues have led to petitions being filed in the Supreme Court seeking the cancellation and re-examination of the NEET-UG 2024. Media reports have revealed that the scores of 1,563 NEET-UG 2024 candidates had been invalidated due to these allegations.
The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the NEET-UG, informed the court that these 1,563 candidates would be re-examined on June 23, with the results and subsequent counselling expected to be completed by June 30. This re-examination aims to ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the selection process.
The first case, filed by Shivangi Mishra and nine others on June 1, was lodged before the results of NEET-UG 2024 were announced. This petition is currently being heard by a vacation bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Ahsanuddin Amanullah. The case is officially titled “Shivangi Mishra and others vs. National Testing Agency and others.”
In addition to this, three other petitions have been filed seeking to cancel and retest the NEET-UG 2024 due to alleged anomalies in the grant of grace marks. These cases are being addressed by Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta. The petitioners in these cases have also requested a stay on the counselling process, challenging the NEET-UG 2024 results on grounds of widespread irregularities.
The Supreme Court had previously issued notices to the central government and the NTA in response to these petitions. The court observed that the sanctity of the medical entrance examination had been compromised but did not impose a stay on the counselling process for undergraduate medical admissions. The court emphasized the need for answers, stating, “Sanctity has been affected, we need answers,” and scheduled further hearings for July 8.
Petitioners argue that the NEET-UG 2024 should be cancelled and re-examined due to the NTA’s decision to award grace marks to around 1,600 students, which they claim has caused widespread dissatisfaction among students and parents. They believe that this decision undermines the fairness and integrity of the examination process.
The NTA has responded to these concerns, addressing the various issues raised about the exam. This includes a viral video showing a candidate from Uttar Pradesh with a torn OMR sheet, which has further fueled the controversy and dissatisfaction among the examinees and their families.
As the Supreme Court continues to deliberate on these matters, the future of the NEET-UG 2024 hangs in the balance. The court’s decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the next steps for the affected candidates and the overall examination process.
