Amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the cancellation of the UGC-NET exam, the Education Ministry has clarified that the test was scrapped due to concerns over its integrity. The ministry emphasized that it will not hesitate to take action against anyone found responsible. The Union education ministry cancelled the UGC-NET after receiving inputs suggesting potential compromises in the exam’s integrity and has handed over the matter to the CBI for investigation.
This decision comes in the wake of a major uproar over alleged irregularities in the medical entrance exam NEET, which is now under the scrutiny of the Supreme Court. Allegations of question paper leaks in states like Bihar and other irregularities have led to protests in multiple cities and the filing of petitions in several high courts as well as the Supreme Court.
In a press briefing, Ministry of Education Joint Secretary Govind Jaiswal stated, “9 lakh students participated in the UGC-NET exam conducted by the NTA on June 18. The ministry observed potential compromises in the examination. Therefore, the examination has been cancelled. The next date will be announced soon. The matter has been referred to the CBI.”
ON NEET CONTROVERSY
“In NEET, several issues have arisen. One involves the ‘grace mark’ issue. Additionally, there are allegations of malpractice in Bihar, which is under investigation, and another allegation from Gujarat. These are three distinct issues. The grace mark issue has been resolved. Regarding the alleged leak in Bihar, the Economic Offences Wing is conducting an investigation, and NTA has provided all requested information.”