SC directs NTA to release centre-wise scores of NEET-UG 2024 candidates amid paper leak controversy

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday issued a directive to the National Testing Agency (NTA), ordering the publication of NEET-UG 2024 exam results by July 20. The court emphasized that the results should be released in a manner that protects the anonymity of all candidates involved. The exam was helf across 571 cities and 4,750 centres on May 5, with about 23 lakh students compete for some 1.08 lakh MBBS seats at government and private colleges. The apex court directed the Bihar police and their economic offences wing- who had initially handled the probe before it was transferred to the CBI. 

Continued hearings and legal challenges

The court's decision comes amidst ongoing hearings scheduled to resume on July 22, focusing on a barrage of petitions seeking actions ranging from cancellation to a court-monitored investigation into alleged irregularities during the May 5 NEET-UG examination.

Bench's criteria for re-examination

Chief Justice D Y Chandrachud, leading the bench, underscored that any consideration for a re-examination must be substantiated by compelling evidence demonstrating substantial compromises in the examination process due to reported malpractices.

Concerns over allegations

During proceedings, the bench scrutinized claims of significant irregularities, particularly the alleged question paper leaks, which petitioners argue justify the need for a comprehensive re-evaluation of the exam's integrity. The court noted initial reports suggesting localized incidents in Patna and Hazaribagh, with no similar issues reported in Godhra, Gujarat.

Judicial prioritization and procedural decisions

With over 40 petitions before it, including appeals from the NTA, the Supreme Court is centralizing these cases to avoid multiple litigations across various high courts. The bench highlighted the broader implications of the case, acknowledging its societal impact and the urgency to address concerns affecting lakhs of aspiring students.