Supreme Court Upholds NEET-UG 2024 Results Amid Limited Breach Allegations

The Supreme Court has ruled that the NEET-UG 2024 exam faced no systemic breach beyond Hazaribagh and Patna, validating the government's claims. The Court mandated an overhaul of the exam process, emphasizing transparency and enhanced security measures to be adopted by the National Testing Agency.

The Supreme Court confirmed on Friday that several isolated breaches in the NEET-UG 2024 exam were limited to Hazaribagh and Patna. Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh welcomed the decision, stating it validated the government's stance on the transparent conduct of the exam.

Expressing concerns over the National Testing Agency's (NTA) handling of the exams, a bench led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud advised the NTA to avoid erratic decisions moving forward. The Court reiterated that given the limited scope of the breaches, a retest would not be necessary for this year's NEET-UG.

The Court directed a comprehensive review of the examination process, focusing on enhancing security measures, implementing data protection protocols, conducting audits, and instituting better grievance redressal systems. It emphasized that students should not have to bear the brunt of procedural lapses.

This ruling followed several pleas seeking annulment of the NEET-UG 2024 results and a re-examination due to allegations of paper leakage and other malpractices. However, the Supreme Court firmly dismissed these claims, ensuring the existing results stand.

NEET-UG, conducted by the NTA, is crucial for admissions into medical and allied courses nationwide. This year, approximately 24 lakh candidates appeared for the exam across over 4,750 centers on May 5.

(With inputs from agencies.)