On Monday, the Supreme Court instructed the National Testing Agency (NTA) to fully disclose three critical aspects of the NEET-UG paper leak case.
A three-judge panel led by Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud mandated that the NTA reveal when the question paper leak occurred, the method by which the papers were leaked, and the time interval between the leak and the actual NEET-UG examination on May 5.
The court was addressing petitions related to the controversial NEET-UG 2024, including allegations of irregularities and malpractice, and requests for a re-examination.
The Supreme Court emphasized that, as the investigation has been assigned to the Central Bureau of Investigation, a status report should be submitted by the investigating officer. This report should detail the investigation’s progress and findings, especially concerning the timing and manner of the paper leak.
“The IO shall in particular place before court material that has bearing on when the leak took place and modalities by which ques papers were made available,” the court stated.
Additionally, the NTA was directed to disclose the measures taken to identify individuals who benefited from the paper leak.
The court also queried the Centre and the NTA on the feasibility of employing data analytics through the Cyber Forensics unit or any expert agency to pinpoint suspect cases.
“If this is possible, authorities shall identify the modalities to be followed so as to segregate tainted from untainted,” stated the bench led by the Chief Justice.
The Supreme Court requested details on the procedures to be followed between the conclusion of the exam, including the retest held for 1,563 students, and the start of the counseling process. It also sought clarification on the status of counseling if further beneficiaries of the leak are identified by the NTA.
To ensure the integrity of future NEET examinations and prevent such incidents, the court suggested that the Centre consider forming a multi-disciplinary committee. This committee would be tasked with implementing measures to avoid future breaches.
“If such a committee constituted, details of it be furnished and whether the scope of committee be efficiently enhanced to have a pool of talent on administration but domain expertise,” the court added.
The Supreme Court has set a deadline for these reports to be submitted by Wednesday, July 10.
“The affidavits will be shared with petitioners. Report of CBI be also placed on record in the meantime,” the court stated.
Chief Justice Chandrachud emphasized, “Let there be confidence in the community.” The next hearing is scheduled for July 11.