The Supreme Court has extended the authority of a committee established by the Center in a significant step to improve the integrity of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG). In advance of the court’s detailed ruling on the NEET-UG case, the committee’s new duties include a thorough examination of the National Testing Agency’s (NTA) administrative procedures and guaranteeing test security.
The committee is now tasked with several critical objectives, including formulating standard operating procedures for registration and exam conduct, reviewing processes for changing exam centres, and recommending stricter identity verification procedures for candidates. It will also assess the feasibility of installing CCTV cameras in all exam centres and suggest mechanisms for tamper-proof question papers. The committee will also investigate technical advancements to improve security and carry out routine audits of testing facilities.
The committee’s report is due to the Supreme Court by September 30, 2024. Following that date, the Ministry of Education will carry out the committee’s recommendations and provide a report to the court.
In connection with this, the NEET-UG test paper leak case has seen the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) name 13 individuals and reveal 40 arrests in its initial charge sheet. The CBI has gathered evidence against the defendants by analyzing CCTV video, cell tower positions, artificial intelligence, and modern forensic procedures. On June 23, complaints of anomalies, cheating, and impersonation during the test prompted the opening of the inquiry.
The NTA and the Central government are required to produce affidavits outlining their reaction to the crisis, as part of the Supreme Court’s emphasis on responsibility. These reforms are essential to rebuilding public trust in the NEET-UG examination process since concerns about exam integrity and openness remain.
