The Supreme Court has directed the Central government to put an end to recurring irregularities in the NEET undergraduate examination, observing that the question paper leak issue cannot be allowed to continue.
A bench comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe heard petitions related to the NEET question paper leak. The court said the Centre’s temporary or emergency measures have, over the years, continued to create problems, and stressed the need for permanent changes in the examination system.
The bench said it would keep monitoring the steps taken by the Central government in the matter. It also sought an explanation on conducting NEET through a computer-based mode, and on ensuring data protection and cyber security, including measures to prevent question leaks in an online format.
Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta said the government is treating the issue seriously and that security has been strengthened at every stage—from printing the paper to distribution on exam day. He added that the National Testing Agency has accepted recommendations of the Radhakrishnan Committee and that structural reforms are being undertaken to protect the exam’s credibility.
The court directed the Central government to file a detailed affidavit with plans and responses on preventing leaks, and adjourned the hearing to the day after tomorrow.
