“No indication of malpractice”: Centre Files Affidavit to SC, Opposes Claims of Mass Cheating in NEET-UG Exam

The Centre on Wednesday filed its affidavit before the Supreme Court in connection with the 2024 NEET-UG case, firmly opposing claims of widespread malpractice during the medical entrance exam conducted on May 5. "There is neither any indication of mass malpractice nor a localised set of candidates being benefitted leading to abnormal scores,” stated the Union Government.

During a hearing on July 8, the Supreme Court had asked the Centre and NTA to respond to the extent of the paper leak and measures for segregating wrongdoers. The affidavit included an IIT Madras report, noting, "The marks distribution follows the bell-shaped curve that is witnessed in any large-scale examination indicating no abnormality." The affidavit also added the government's efforts, stating, "The Union of India is taking all-round efforts to devise solution-oriented mechanisms," aimed at preventing malpractice without burdening the 23 lakh students unnecessarily.

Allegations surrounding the exam, including paper leaks and discrepancies in granting grace marks. An unusual number of perfect scores initially reported raised suspicions, particularly concerning candidates from a single center in Haryana. The Centre defended the increase in scores, attributing it to a 25% reduction in syllabus, and argued that high scores were spread across multiple cities and centers, indicating minimal likelihood of systemic malpractice.

Regarding future actions, the affidavit assured, "If a candidate is found beneficiary of any malpractice, his/her candidature would be cancelled at any stage during the counseling process or even afterwards." It also highlighted the need for a policy-level decision regarding any further actions related to the question paper leakage during counseling.

Chief Justice DY Chandrachud emphasized during recent hearings the need to ascertain the extent of any leaks before making decisions that could impact the 23 lakh students who appeared for the exam. The allegations surrounding the NEET-UG exam include accusations of paper leaks and discrepancies in score adjustments, which have sparked protests and political outcry nationwide. The Supreme Court on Thursday is scheduled to hear over 40 petitions related to the NEET-UG 2024 exam, with discussions expected to include the credibility of the exam process and potential policy decisions to address the alleged irregularities.​