The Supreme Court on Friday was informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally supervising the investigation into the NEET-UG paper leak controversy, which has triggered concern among students, parents and education experts across India.
The statement was made by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta during a hearing on petitions challenging the cancellation of the NEET-UG examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
According to reports, the Centre assured the apex court that new safeguards and monitoring systems have already been introduced for the upcoming NEET-UG examination scheduled for June 21.
Supreme Court raises concerns over exam integrity
During the hearing, Justice Pamidighantam Sri Narasimha questioned the Centre on how the leak occurred despite earlier recommendations made by high-level committees.
The court observed that repeated exam irregularities can deeply affect students who invest years of preparation, hard work and emotional energy into competitive examinations.
“It is very traumatic,” the court remarked while stressing the need for accountability and stronger implementation mechanisms.
The bench also referred to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) as an example of how large-scale examinations can be conducted efficiently and securely.
Centre promises stricter safeguards
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that the government has introduced additional security mechanisms to prevent future leaks and ensure transparency in the examination process.
He added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring developments related to the investigation and corrective measures.
The Supreme Court has now directed the Centre to file a detailed affidavit explaining how the investigation is being conducted and what steps are being taken to prevent similar incidents in future examinations.
The matter is expected to be heard again in the second week of July.
NEET controversy sparks nationwide debate
The NEET-UG paper leak row has sparked widespread debate over examination security and student welfare in India. Several students and parents have demanded stronger safeguards, transparent investigations and faster action against those responsible.
The controversy has also renewed discussions about reforms needed in India’s competitive examination system, especially for high-stakes entrance tests that impact millions of students every year.
Education authorities have meanwhile urged students to stay updated through official notifications and avoid misinformation circulating on social media.
