NEET-UG Paper Leak: CBI Files FIR Over Alleged Malpractices; Probe Teams To Visit Gujarat, Bihar

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered its first information report (FIR) concerning alleged irregularities in the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) exam following a complaint from the Education Ministry.

The CBI is preparing to take over investigations from various states related to the issue.

Photo Credit: PTI

CBI teams are set to visit Bihar and Gujarat to investigate a "larger conspiracy" around the 2024 NEET-UG exam, as initially reported. The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the NEET-UG exam on May 5 in OMR mode.

Allegations of cheating, impersonation, and other malpractices have emerged. Opposition parties and student groups are calling for a retest, reported Hindustan Times.

On Saturday, the Centre decided to transfer the investigation to the CBI. "For transparency in the examination process, the ministry of education, after a review, has decided to entrust the matter to the CBI for a comprehensive investigation," it said.

Besides NEET-UG, three other exams-UGC NET, CSIR-UGC NET, and NEET-PG-have also faced issues. The UGC NET was canceled by the Centre a day after it was held, while the CSIR-UGC NET and NEET-PG exams have been postponed.

To address exam malpractice, the Centre has enacted the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. This legislation aims to prevent unfair practices in public examinations and resolve related problems.

Furthermore, the ministry of education has formed a high-level committee of experts led by K. Radhakrishnan, former chairman of ISRO, to ensure transparent, smooth, and fair examination conduct.

This committee will recommend reforms in the examination process, enhancements in data security protocols, and improvements in the NTA's structure and functioning. The committee is expected to submit its report within two months.