NEET UG Grace Marks: Committee Set Up for Evaluation, Review of Scores for 1500 Applicants Underway
The NEET UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate courses) results have sparked controversy amid allegations of score manipulation. The National Testing Agency (NTA) announced on Saturday that the Ministry of Education has formed a four-member committee to review the results of over 1,500 candidates who received grace marks. This committee, chaired by a former UPSC chairman, will submit its recommendations internally. Subsequently, modifications may be made to the results of these candidates.
During this period, the NTA refuted any irregularities, attributing the higher scores of candidates to changes in NCERT textbooks and the time spent in examination centers. They stated that the exams were conducted according to set standards.
Impact of Results Review on Admission Process
NTA's Director-General, Subodh Kumar Singh, stated in a press conference that awarding grace marks has not affected the eligibility criteria for the exam, and reviewing the results of affected candidates will not impact the admission process. Regarding the demand for re-examination for some students, Singh mentioned that a decision would be made based on the committee's recommendations.
Allegations and Political Dimension
This year's NEET UG results announcement has triggered demands for re-examination in states like Maharashtra. The issue has also taken on political dimensions, with several political parties, including the Congress, expressing dissatisfaction and calling for an investigation. The Aam Aadmi Party has sought an SIT investigation monitored by the court. The Congress has alleged paper leaks, manipulation, and corruption in several examinations, claiming these issues are integral to many exams. The Maharashtra government has accused the examination of being conducted for profit.
Result Announcement and Legal Challenges
The NEET UG result was announced on June 4th, drawing immediate attention to candidates who scored a perfect 720/720 and those who received scores of 718 or 719, a feat some deemed impossible under the scheme. Some candidates have alleged paper leaks, although the NTA has denied these claims.
NTA clarified that the decision will not affect other candidates. The counseling process for MBBS programs is set to begin, unaffected by the review process. The special committee will deliver its decision before the next Saturday, and further steps will be taken accordingly. However, NTA assures efforts to ensure no hindrance to the admission process.
Legal Challenges and Hearings
Several candidates have filed petitions in various high courts. Delhi High Court listed for hearing on June 12th a petition filed by a NEET UG candidate challenging the final answer sheet's question number 29. Another public interest petition was filed before the Calcutta High Court's division bench, raising questions about some candidates receiving 718 or 719 marks in NEET UG 2024. The court directed the NTA to submit a response within 10 days. Meanwhile, another NEET UG candidate filed a writ petition before the Supreme Court. The court issued notices to respondents on May 17th and scheduled the next hearing for July 8th.