The Indian Medical Association (IMA) Junior Doctors Network has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into alleged irregularities surrounding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) 2024. In a letter to Pradeep Kumar Joshi, Chairperson of the National Testing Agency (NTA), they also urged for a re-examination “to ensure a fair and transparent evaluation process for all the students”. Concerns were raised regarding discrepancies in scores, perfect scores by some students, the concept of grace marks, and paper leaks.
“Some students have scored 718 and 719 marks, which is statistically questionable… No list has been shared as per given grace marks… NEET 2024 paper was leaked in many locations but why no action has been taken yet?” the letter highlighted. It also mentioned discrepancies between scores on scorecards and OMR sheets, as well as the unprecedented increase in perfect scores.
The Junior Doctors Network questioned the premature declaration of results and the significant rise in the cut-off. Dr. Indranil Deshmukh, National Convener of IMA Junior Doctors Network, emphasized the impossibility of scoring 718-719 marks according to the negative marking system. He announced the network’s intent to organize an all-India strike if demands were not addressed.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the Modi government over the alleged irregularities in NEET. She demanded a proper investigation into the matter to address students’ legitimate complaints. However, the National Testing Agency (NTA) denied any irregularities and attributed the record results to various factors, including an easier exam, increased registrations, and grace marks due to a ‘loss of examination time’.
The NEET exam witnessed 20.38 lakh registrations, with 11.45 lakh candidates qualifying. The declaration of results saw 67 students achieving an All India Rank (AIR) 1.