New Delhi:The Indian Medical Association (IMA) welcomed the government’s decision to
hand over the investigation of alleged NEET-UG irregularities to the Central Bureau of
Investigation (CBI). The IMA thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and key ministers for
their swift response to concerns about the exam.
“We are grateful to the Union Ministry of Education for assigning the NEET-UG
‘irregularities’ probe to the CBI for a thorough investigation,” the IMA stated.
Following nationwide protests and legal action by students over claims of a paper leak, the
CBI registered an FIR related to the NEET-UG exam held on May 5. This move came a day
after the ministry announced the transfer of the probe to the CBI.
The IMA also appreciated the removal of the National Testing Agency (NTA) director
general. The NTA had conducted a retest for 1,563 students awarded grace marks due to time
loss at six centers. Suspicion arose as 67 students achieved a perfect score of 720, with six
from a center in Faridabad, Haryana.
The IMA praised the government for enacting strict laws against malpractice in competitive
exams, noting that offenders could face up to 10 years in prison and a minimum fine of Rs 1
crore.
Stressing the importance of integrity in exams, the IMA stated, “The challenges faced by
NEET-PG students are part of necessary reforms, and we hope for a robust mechanism as
promised.” The health ministry postponed the NEET-PG exam scheduled for June 23 as a
precaution, and the IMA urged the government to ensure timely admission counselling for
medical, dental, and other courses.
