New Delhi, July 7, 2024 — In a pivotal decision, the Supreme Court has decided not to halt the NEET UG 2024 counseling process, despite serious allegations of paper leaks and other malpractices. Petitioners had sought the suspension of counseling and a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged irregularities surrounding the examination.
The bench, headed by Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud, stated that the evidence presented was insufficient to warrant an immediate cessation of the counseling process. The court stressed that emotional appeals, such as those linking NEET results to student suicides in Kota, should not influence judicial decisions.
While the Court did not stop the counseling, it recognized the gravity of the malpractice allegations. A notice was issued to the National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting NEET, requesting a detailed response within two weeks. The next hearing is scheduled for July 8.
The petitioners argued that the examination’s integrity was compromised, impacting the future prospects of numerous aspirants. They called for a comprehensive investigation to ensure the fairness and transparency of the NEET UG 2024 examination process.
NEET UG is a crucial examination for students aspiring to enter undergraduate medical and dental courses in India. Given the high stakes and the sheer number of candidates—over a million—any hint of malpractice raises significant concerns among students and their families.
The outcome of this case is highly anticipated, as it could have far-reaching implications for medical education in India. The NTA’s response to the Supreme Court will be pivotal in determining the future course of action regarding these allegations.