NEET-UG 2024: 63 Cases of Unfair Means Detected, No Paper Leak Confirms NTA

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has revealed 63 instances of students using unfair means during the NEET-UG 2024 examination. Out of these, 23 candidates have been debarred for varying periods. Despite these incidents, NTA officials have assured that the sanctity of the medical entrance exam remains intact, with no paper leaks reported.

Actions Taken Against Unfair Practices

NTA Director General Subodh Kumar Singh disclosed that a committee of three eminent experts in examination and academics was formed to review cases of impersonation, cheating, and tampering with OMR sheets. Based on the panel's recommendations:

• 12 candidates were debarred for three years.
• 9 candidates were debarred for two years.
• 2 candidates were debarred for one year.

The results of the remaining 40 candidates involved in unfair means have been withheld pending further review.

Allegations and Legal Proceedings

The NTA faces criticism and allegations of irregularities, including claims of inflated marks and potential question paper leaks. This controversy has escalated to the top court, which has demanded responses from the Centre and the NTA regarding a plea to retake the examination due to these alleged malpractices.

Grace Marks Controversy

In response to the allegations, the education ministry established a four-member panel to examine the grace marks awarded to 1,563 students. These grace marks were intended to compensate for delays in starting the exam at certain centers. The panel's recommendations, which are still pending, will determine whether a retest for approximately 1,600 students is necessary or if an alternative solution can be implemented.

Addressing Marks Inflation Claims

Singh addressed the concerns of marks inflation, noting that out of the 67 candidates who achieved a perfect score of 720 out of 720, 44 candidates' marks were revised due to an updated answer key for physics, while six candidates received marks due to time loss compensations. Only two candidates receiving grace marks scored 718 and 719, respectively.