New Delhi: The Modi government finds itself entangled in a web of paper leaks and examination cancellations. Fresh off the heels of the NEET (National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test) controversy, the Ministry of Education has taken a decisive step. On Wednesday, it ordered the cancellation of the UGC-NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The matter has now been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a thorough investigation.
Key Details:
- Integrity Concerns: The decision to cancel the UGC-NET June 2024 exam stems from concerns about its integrity. Inputs from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Center (I4C) indicated possible compromises, prompting swift action.
- Transparency and Purity: The education ministry aims to ensure the highest level of transparency and purity in the examination process. Consequently, a fresh UGC-NET examination will be scheduled, with details to be communicated separately.
- NEET Controversy: The cancellation comes amidst a larger controversy surrounding the NEET exam. Allegations of question paper leaks and irregularities have sparked protests and legal petitions in various courts.
- Bihar Connection: The Economic Offences Unit of Bihar Police is investigating alleged irregularities in the conduct of the NEET-Graduate 2024 exam in Patna. The government awaits their detailed report before taking further action.
- Congress Critique: The Congress wasted no time, branding the Modi-led government as a “paper leak government.” Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge demanded accountability and questioned when Prime Minister Narendra Modi would address the NEET issue.
In a break from tradition, the UGC-NET exam was conducted in “pen and paper mode” on a single day, with 11 lakh students participating. This exam determines eligibility for Indians seeking Junior Research Fellowships, Assistant Professor positions, and PhD admissions in universities and colleges across the country.
The government’s commitment to maintaining the sanctity of examinations and safeguarding student interests remains steadfast. Strict action awaits any individual or organization found involved in compromising the integrity of these crucial exams.
