NEET-UG paper leak: In a major development related to the NEET-UG 2024 examination irregularities, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has taken strict action against students who were found guilty of malpractice. The Commission has ordered the cancellations of admissions for 14 MBBS students and ordered the immediate suspension of 26 others for using unfair means during the medical entrance test, according to an official source.
The disciplinary action has been taken given the ongoing probe into the NEET-UG paper leak, being conducted by the Central Bureau of investigation (CBI) and other agencies. The National Testing Agency (NTA) which is responsible for conducting the examination has earlier banned 42 candidates from appearing in the NEET-UG for three years-2024,2025 and 2026. These candidates were caught cheating. Moreover, nine more students were not allowed to participate in the 2025 and 2026 examinations.
The NMC action is based on CBI’s findings and reflects growing concern over the authenticity of India’s medical entrance process. The source told to PTI, ‘’Given the seriousness of these violations and their potential to undermine the credibility of the medical education system, the National Medical Commission has issued directives to the concerned medical colleges and institutions to immediately suspend the 26 MBBS students found to be guilty.’’
On the other hand, the status of 215 students who sat for the NEET-UG 2024 continues to be uncertain, as their candidature has been placed on hold pending further probe. The Commission reinstated its ‘’zero-tolerance policy’’ toward academic fraud and mentioned that it would take all mandatory initiatives to maintain transparency and trust in medical admissions.
The crackdown comes just before NEET-UG 2025 examination, which is scheduled to take place on May 4. The NCC’s stern stand indicates a broader effort to clean up the selection process and to ensure that only serving candidates took admission in Indian medical colleges.
(With inputs from PTI)