"Integrity of the Exam Compromised...": Ministry of Education cancels UGC-NET June 2024 Exam

The Ministry of Education on Wednesday announced the cancellation of the UGC-NET June 2024 exam, which was conducted nationwide on June 18. In an official statement, the Ministry cited potential misconduct and compromised integrity of the examination as reasons for this decision. The matter has been referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation for a thorough investigation.

"To ensure the highest level of transparency and sanctity of the examination process, the Ministry of Education, Government of India has decided that the UGC-NET June 2024 Examination be cancelled," read the notice issued by the Ministry of Education. "A fresh examination shall be conducted, for which information shall be shared separately," it added. 

According to officials, the National Testing Agency, responsible for conducting the UGC-NET, received alerts from the National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit regarding possible compromises in the exam's integrity. Furthermore, the Ministry assured that details about the rescheduled UGC-NET exam will be communicated separately as part of efforts to uphold the examination's integrity and fairness.

In addition to cancelling the exam, the Ministry has involved the CBI to investigate the matter further. The decision comes amid ongoing controversies surrounding other national exams, including NEET(UG), which is currently under scrutiny by the Supreme Court due to alleged irregularities.

According to reports, out of the 11,21,225 registered candidates for UGC-NET June 2024, 81% appeared for the exam, including 6,35,587 female students, 4,85,579 male students, and 59 third-gender candidates. This year's UGC-NET saw a significant shift from its usual computer-based format to pen and paper, conducted in a single day with a record 11 lakh registrations. The exam determines eligibility for junior research fellowships, assistant professorships, and admission to PhD programs in Indian universities.