Govt ready for every kind of discussion on NEET-UG row but...: Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan. Source: PTI.

The government is ready for “every kind of discussion” on the medical entrance examination – NEET-UG 2024 – but that should take place following traditions as well as maintaining decorum, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said on Friday.

“The President spoke about the exam in her speech on Thursday and it shows the government’s intention that we are ready to face any issue,” Pradhan told while talking to media outside the parliament after the Lok Sabha session was adjourned on Friday for the day amid protests by the Opposition demanding a discussion on the alleged irregularities in the conduct of NEET-UG.

The education minister further said the government’s responsibility is towards the youth and students of the country.

‘Will not spare anyone’

“When the government is ready to put forth its side then what is the confusion? We are going to take the strictest action and the CBI is going to nab everyone (involved). We will not spare anyone,” Pradhan said.

‘Appeal Opposition not to confuse students’

“Those in charge of NTA have been removed and the responsibility has been given to senior officials. All of this is proof of the government’s commitment. I want to appeal to the Opposition that they should not confuse the students,” the minister said.

“A credible high-level committee has also been formed for reforms. Soon, the dates of all those exams (postponed or cancelled) will also be announced. I request the opposition to join the discussion,” Pradhan added.

NEET-UG 2024 row

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate), or NEET-UG, was conducted on May 5 by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in which around 24 lakh candidates took the exam.

The NEET-UG 2024 results were declared on June 4 and soon after there were allegations of irregularities and question paper leaks in states such as Bihar.

On Thursday, in her address to the joint session of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, President Droupadi Murmu said: "The recent irregularities and paper leaks are being dealt with strongly, the government's focus is on improving the exam process. My government is committed to a fair investigation and ensuring strict punishment to the culprits.”

“Even earlier, we have witnessed many instances of paper leaks in different States. It is important that we rise above party politics and undertake concrete measures nationwide,” the President said.

With inputs from PTI