Can't let it go on like this, Supreme Court tells Centre on NEET paper leak row

The Supreme Court on Friday said, “this cannot go on like this” while adjourning the NEET-UG paper leak matter on Friday and decided to closely monitor the steps being taken by the Centre to prevent such incidents in the future.

The apex court said it would follow the progress of reforms throughout the year and ensure that a strong institutional mechanism is created to protect the credibility of the country’s biggest medical entrance examination.

The Court directed the Central Government to submit a detailed affidavit explaining the measures planned to prevent question paper leaks and strengthen the examination system. It will review the government’s response after the affidavit is filed.

CENTRE ASSURES STRICT ACTION FOR STUDENTS

During the hearing, the Centre told the Supreme Court that it was committed to addressing students’ concerns and would go “10 extra miles” to ensure a fair examination process.

The government also assured the court that steps were being taken to improve examination security and prevent future breaches.

"Government is going ten extra miles. Children’s problems have to be addressed. Everything is being done under the supervision of the highest executive level," Solicitor General of India (SG) Tushar Mehta remarked.

The hearing comes amid concerns over repeated challenges faced by NEET-UG aspirants, including allegations of paper leaks and lapses in examination management. The Supreme Court had earlier questioned the need for stronger accountability and sought clarity on reforms in the examination system.

COURT SEEKS PERMANENT EXAM SECURITY SYSTEM

The Supreme Court made it clear that temporary solutions would not be enough and emphasised the need for a permanent mechanism to safeguard national-level examinations.

The Centre’s affidavit is expected to provide details on:

Security measures for question paper preparation and movement

Steps to prevent leaks and unauthorised access

Accountability mechanisms in case of violations

Long-term reforms in examination management

The Court’s monitoring will continue as the government works on implementing these measures.

NEET PAPER LEAK ROW

The NEET-UG paper leak controversy had raised serious concerns among students and parents over examination fairness. With lakhs of candidates appearing every year for medical admissions, any breach directly affects students who spend years preparing for the exam.

The Supreme Court’s latest directions now put the focus on how effectively the Centre can strengthen the examination system and rebuild confidence among aspirants.