Supreme Court Addresses NEET UG 2024 Question Paper Leak; Hearing Continues on July 11
In a significant development concerning the NEET UG 2024 examination, the Supreme Court has acknowledged the occurrence of a question paper leak. The court, led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the extent of the breach and the number of beneficiaries involved.
During today’s hearing, the three-judge bench comprising CJI Chandrachud, Justice JB Pardiwala, and Justice Manoj Misra, expressed serious concerns over the dissemination of the leaked question paper through electronic means such as Telegram and WhatsApp. CJI Chandrachud remarked, “If the question paper leak was taking place through Telegram, WhatsApp, and electronic means, then it spreads like wildfire.”
The bench has directed the National Testing Agency (NTA), the body responsible for conducting the NEET UG exam, to provide detailed disclosures regarding the leak. The court is particularly interested in understanding the measures taken by NTA to address the situation and the specific actions initiated against those who benefited from the leak.
The matter has garnered significant attention, with several students and coaching institutes filing pleas against the NEET UG 2024 result. The petitioners’ legal representatives argued for the cancellation of the exam, citing multiple irregularities including paper leak, OMR sheet manipulation, impersonation, and cheating.
CJI Chandrachud indicated the possibility of a re-test, stating, “If the leak has been propagated through social media, then a re-test has to be ordered.” This statement has raised concerns and hopes among the affected students, who await further clarity on the matter.
The next hearing is scheduled for July 11, where the court expects comprehensive disclosures from NTA. The outcome of this hearing could significantly impact the future of many aspiring medical students.
