The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the investigation into the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2024 exams and has formed special teams to probe the case, according to a statement from the central agency on Sunday. The CBI is dispatching these teams to Patna, Bihar, and Godhra, Gujarat, where local police have registered cases.
“CBI has registered a criminal case and initiated an investigation. Special teams have been formed by the CBI to investigate the matter on top priority. Special CBI teams are being sent to Patna and Godhra where local police cases have been registered,” the CBI stated.
This follows the central government’s decision to assign the CBI to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG exam 2024.
“The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the NEET (UG) Examination on May 5, 2024, in OMR (Pen and Paper) mode. Certain cases of alleged irregularities/cheating/impersonation/malpractices have been reported. For transparency on the conduct of the examination process, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, after a review has decided to entrust the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for comprehensive investigation. The central government has also enacted the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, to prevent unfair means in public examinations and to provide for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto,” the government said.
“The government is committed to ensuring the sanctity of examinations and protecting the interest of students. It is reiterated that any individual/organization found to be involved will face the strictest action,” the statement added.
The National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting the NEET-UG exams, has faced criticism due to the alleged irregularities, leading to widespread protests and calls from political parties to disband the NTA. Concerns were heightened after an unprecedented 67 candidates achieved a perfect score of 720 out of 720.