NTA has faced a major outcry after an exam was suddenly called-off last minute before its date – originally set for 18 June 2024 by UGC-NET due to a paper leak suspicion. This test meant to help students to enroll into college or university teaching careers; which claimedly lost credibility after the claims of distribution of the question paper on online black marekt at a cost of INR 6 lakh around 48-hours prior to starting of this test. The NTA, citing concerns about the “integrity of the June session,” decided to cancel the exam a day after it was held.
The National Testing Agency released a statement that claimed, the period between August 21st and September 4th will be the most ideal time frame for implementing the re-examination. This raised an alarm among some students because it transitions away from the conventional paper and pen method, to online method, which they feel less confident about. The abrupt change has further fueled the frustration among students who had meticulously prepared for the June exam.
The UGC-NET controversy is part of a broader issue. Due to “unavoidable circumstances” Joint CSIR-UGC NET exam formerly set for June was also called off. In the same way, National Common Entrance Test (NCET) has been rescheduled for 10th July 2024. These developments have led to widespread protests from students, who feel their hard work and resources have been compromised.
Adding to the chaos, the opposition party has accused the Central government of improperly handling important tests, threatening students’ futures. In response to the mounting criticism, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a criminal case to probe the conduct of the NTA tests. Special teams have been formed to probe the suspected irregularities, including the paper leak and the postponement of exams.
The UGC-NET scandal has left aspiring academics in as state of uncertainty and frustration. With the re-examination dates just weeks after the original schedule, students face a compressed window for additional preparation.
In future robust safety precautions must be adopted to avoid such leaks, and a full evaluation of the NTA’s inspection methods is required to restore trust in the system. Ensuring these processes will protect students’ goals for academic careers and assist reestablish faith in the test process.
