Parliamentary Committee Calls for Fairness in NEET-UG Exam Amid Ongoing CBI Investigation
A parliamentary committee has highlighted the need for ensuring the integrity of the NEET-UG examination conducted by the NTA, amid an ongoing CBI investigation into a paper leak. The committee, led by AIADMK member M. Thambidurai, discussed various aspects of the examination process, including the need for timely counseling and the importance of maintaining the seat matrix for MBBS admissions. The Ministry of Education has directed the CBI to investigate all alleged irregularities related to the exam. A high-level expert committee has also been formed to recommend improvements in the examination process and data security protocols. This article delves into the committee's discussions and the implications for future examinations.
| May 29, 2026, 19:17 IST
Ensuring Integrity in NEET-UG Examination
Members of a parliamentary committee emphasized the importance of ensuring the integrity of the NEET-UG examination, which is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). They were briefed on the ongoing investigation by the CBI regarding the paper leak incident. During a meeting of the government assurance committee, chaired by AIADMK member M. Thambidurai, insights were shared by Vinay Joshi, Secretary of the Higher Education Department, Abhishek Singh, Director General of NTA, and Praveen Sood, Director of CBI. The committee also heard from the Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Ministry and the Chairman of the National Medical Commission (NMC).
According to sources, committee members inquired about a statement made by the Ministry of Education in July 2024, which indicated that the CBI was conducting a thorough investigation into alleged irregularities related to the examination's administration.
The CBI is also investigating the NEET-UG exam leak case from this year, which was canceled and is now rescheduled for June 21. The DG of NTA provided a presentation during the meeting. Members stressed that there should be no changes to the seat matrix for MBBS admissions and that counseling should occur in a timely manner. The Ministry of Education had informed the Rajya Sabha in July 2024 that the NEET(UG) 2024 exam was scheduled for May 5, 2024. It noted that following the exam, several cases of alleged irregularities, fraud, and malpractice emerged.
The ministry stated that it had directed the CBI to conduct a comprehensive investigation into all alleged irregularities related to the NEET(UG) 2024 exam, including conspiracy, fraud, and betrayal. It clarified that the NEET(UG) 2024 exam was not postponed or rescheduled, and only 1,563 candidates were allowed to retake the exam based on recommendations from NTA's high-level committee. Additionally, a seven-member high-level expert committee, chaired by former ISRO chief Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, was established to provide recommendations for improving the examination process, data security protocols, and the structure and functioning of the NTA. Sources indicated that parliamentary committee members were also interested in the implementation of the expert committee's recommendations.