No re-test for the 2024 NEET-UG examination: SC

Top court asserts there was no systemic failure

This reassures fairness in the system

In a significant ruling on Tuesday, the Supreme Court of India declared that there will be no re-test for the 2024 NEET-UG examination, despite reports of two localized question paper leaks. The bench, led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, emphasized that there was insufficient evidence to suggest a “systemic breach” or that the “sanctity” of the examination had been compromised.

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The decision comes as a relief to the 23.33 lakh aspiring medical professionals who sat for the exam. The court noted the logistical challenges and substantial impact a re-test would entail, particularly given the extensive travel many candidates undertook to reach their examination centers. “An order to conduct a re-test would have big consequences,” the bench stated, highlighting the impracticality of such a measure given the current evidence.

The Chief Justice asserted that it was “difficult to come to a conclusion that the entire system has been vitiated” at this stage. He underscored the absence of data indicating a widespread issue affecting the exam’s integrity.

This ruling reassures candidates and stakeholders of the NEET-UG 2024 process’s fairness and stability, ensuring that the efforts and preparations of the millions who appeared for the test are respected. The court’s decision also highlights the importance of maintaining the examination’s credibility while addressing concerns in a balanced and pragmatic manner.