Education Ministry Entrusts CBI with NEET UG 2024 Investigation

The Ministry of Education has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged irregularities in the NEET UG 2024 examination.

The Ministry of Education has tasked the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) with a comprehensive investigation into the alleged irregularities in the NEET UG 2024 examination, held on 5th May 2024. Reports of cheating, impersonation, and malpractices have prompted this action. To ensure transparency and uphold examination integrity, the Ministry has also enacted the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. The government reiterated its commitment to take strict action against any individual or organization found guilty of misconduct.

NEET UG 2024 Controversy

The NEET UG 2024 examination faced severe backlash after multiple reports surfaced regarding paper leaks and various forms of malpractice. Following the announcement of results on 4th June 2024, allegations of paper leaks emerged, prompting demands for clarification from the National Testing Agency (NTA). Parents, students, and other stakeholders voiced concerns over the legitimacy of the results, especially after it was revealed that 67 students scored All India Rank 1, with a disproportionate number coming from the same exam center.

This controversy escalated to the point where the Supreme Court had to intervene, ordering a re-exam for 1,563 students who received grace marks due to the irregularities. The re-exam was scheduled for 23rd June 2024, with results expected by the end of the month.

Government's Response

In response to these serious allegations, the Ministry of Education, after a comprehensive review, decided to bring in the CBI to ensure a transparent and unbiased investigation. The Ministry has also enacted the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, aimed at preventing unfair practices in public examinations and maintaining their integrity.

The government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the sanctity of examinations and protecting the interests of students. It has assured that any individual or organization found guilty of involvement in these malpractices will face the strictest action. This move highlights the Ministry's dedication to upholding fairness and transparency in the national examination system.

The high-level committee formed earlier to review and reform the examination process will continue its work alongside the CBI investigation, aiming to provide a comprehensive solution to prevent such incidents in the future.