New Delhi: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the NEET examination and UGC NET cancellation in a press conference on Thursday, following student protests.
Pradhan announced the formation of a high-level committee to reform the National Testing Agency (NTA). “The committee will make recommendations to improve NTA’s structure, functioning, examination process, transparency, and data security protocols,” he stated.
Promising a “zero-error examination” system, the minister assured, “The government will not spare anyone found responsible.” He urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation about the sensitive NEET issue.
“We are committed to protecting students’ interests and will not compromise on transparency,” Pradhan emphasized. He also revealed that the government is in close contact with Bihar authorities, having ordered Patna police to submit a detailed report on the matter as soon as possible.
The minister pledged strict action against any guilty parties, whether within the NTA or among senior officials.
This announcement comes after the government initially denied allegations of a NEET exam paper leak, citing lack of evidence. However, the Supreme Court has now halted all related cases in high courts nationwide and issued notices to the NTA and central government.
The controversy escalated when the UGC-NET examination was cancelled a day after its commencement. In response, students staged a mass protest outside the minister’s residence, prompting today’s media briefing.
