Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Haryana, and Meghalaya were the re-test centers for the NEET-UG examination, held to address the controversy surrounding grace marks awarded earlier. Out of the 1,563 candidates initially granted grace marks, only 813 participated in the re-test, the National Testing Agency (NTA) reported.
Re-test Attendance Breakdown:
- Chhattisgarh: 291 out of 602 eligible candidates
- Haryana: 287 out of 494 eligible candidates
- Meghalaya: 234 out of 464 eligible candidates
- Chandigarh: Both eligible candidates were absent
- Gujarat: Only one candidate appeared
The NEET-UG examination is crucial for admissions into MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and related courses in both government and private institutions.
Controversy Background: The re-test was mandated after the NTA retracted grace marks previously given to students affected by delays at six exam centers. This decision followed the unprecedented achievement of 67 students scoring perfect 720 marks, with six from a single center in Faridabad, Haryana, sparking allegations of score inflation and exam irregularities.
NEET-UG Examination Details:
- Held on May 5 across 4,750 centers
- Approximately 24 lakh candidates participated
- Results announced on June 4, earlier than the expected date of June 14, due to swift evaluation
Allegations and Investigations: The NEET-UG has faced accusations of question paper leaks, particularly in Bihar, leading to widespread protests and multiple legal petitions. The Bihar Police arrested 13 individuals, including the prime suspect Sikandar Yadavendu, for their involvement in the alleged leak.
In response to these issues, the government has taken significant actions:
- Removed NTA Director General Subodh Singh
- Assigned the investigation to the CBI
- Formed a seven-member panel to review and recommend reforms for the NTA
The CBI has also lodged an FIR to further probe the alleged irregularities, confirming the ongoing investigation on Sunday.