The Supreme Court is set to examine the Centre’s affidavit detailing the safeguards and procedures followed to secure NEET UG question papers, amid continuing
concerns over the integrity of the national medical entrance examination. According to a PTI report, the Centre on Monday informed the apex court that it would place on record the complete methodology adopted to protect the question paper at every stage; from printing and storage to transportation and distribution at examination centres. The development comes as the Supreme Court continues to examine issues concerning the security of NEET UG and the measures required to prevent paper leaks and other forms of malpractice. The court has sought greater clarity from the authorities on how confidential examination material is protected throughout the examination process. Centre To Detail NEET Question Paper Security Process The Centre told the Supreme Court that it wants to explain the safeguards implemented across the entire chain of handling the question papers. This includes measures adopted from the time the papers are printed until they reach candidates at examination centres. The affidavit is expected to give the court a detailed account of the existing security mechanism and the steps taken by the authorities to prevent unauthorised access to confidential examination material. The issue assumes significance following the controversy surrounding the NEET UG examination and allegations concerning question paper security. The Supreme Court has previously questioned the authorities over vulnerabilities in the examination system and stressed the need for accountability and robust safeguards. The latest proceedings also come against the backdrop of wider efforts to strengthen the National Testing Agency’s examination infrastructure. Security measures introduced around NEET UG have included tighter monitoring, biometric verification, CCTV surveillance and enhanced arrangements for the transportation and handling of question papers. The court’s examination of the Centre’s affidavit could provide further clarity on whether the existing safeguards are adequate to prevent breaches and ensure the integrity of future NEET examinations. For lakhs of medical aspirants, the proceedings are significant as the security of the examination process directly affects confidence in the fairness and credibility of NEET UG, one of India’s largest entrance examinations. (With inputs from PTI)
