New Delhi: On Monday, the Supreme Court instructed the National Testing Agency (NTA) to fully disclose key details regarding the NEET-UG paper leak incident. Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud led a three-judge bench that mandated the NTA to reveal when the leak occurred, the method of the leak, and the time gap between the leak and the NEET-UG exam on May 5.
The Supreme Court is addressing multiple pleas related to alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2024 exam, with some petitioners calling for the test to be reconducted. The bench emphasized the need for transparency, especially since the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is handling the investigation. A status report from the investigating officer must be submitted to the court, detailing the progress and findings of the investigation. The court specifically requested information on the timing and manner of the leak and demanded the NTA to outline the measures taken to identify those who benefited from the leaked papers. Additionally, the Supreme Court asked the Centre and the NTA about the feasibility of using data analytics or cyber forensics to identify suspicious cases.
“If this is possible, authorities shall identify the modalities to be followed so as to segregate tainted from untainted,” the bench stated. The court also called for details on the steps taken between the conclusion of the exam, the retest held for 1,563 students, and the start of the counselling process. It questioned what actions should be taken regarding counselling if more beneficiaries of the leak are identified. To ensure the integrity of future exams, the Supreme Court suggested the Centre consider forming a multi-disciplinary committee. This committee would develop measures to prevent similar incidents and might include a range of experts to enhance its effectiveness. Reports on these directives are to be submitted by Wednesday, July 10. The affidavits will be shared with the petitioners, and the CBI's report will also be filed in the meantime. "Let there be confidence in the community," said Chief Justice Chandrachud, with the next hearing scheduled for July 11.