Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Addresses NEET Paper Leak Controversy

New Delhi [India], June 28: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan spoke about the recent paper leak controversy surrounding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for medical undergraduates. He emphasized that discussions should happen within tradition and decorum. Pradhan assured that the government is ready for any discussion and is committed to the youth and students of the country.

Pradhan stated, “The government is ready to put forth its side, then what is the confusion? We are going to take the strictest action and the CBI is going to catch everyone, we will not spare anyone. A credible high-level committee has also been formed for reform, soon the date of all those exams will also be announced.” He also urged the opposition to join the discussion and not confuse the students.

However, the opposition, led by Rajya Sabha Leader of Opposition and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, demanded a special discussion on the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda criticized the government, stating that the future of the youth has been spoiled due to continuous paper leaks.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) registered a criminal case on June 23 over the alleged irregularities in the NEET (UG) 2024 examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The examination was held on May 5, 2024, with over 23 lakh candidates appearing. An unprecedented 67 candidates achieved a perfect score, leading to widespread protests.

The Ministry of Education has formed a high-level committee to recommend reforms in the examination process and improvements in data security protocols.