7 July 2024: In a significant development in the NEET-UG exam malpractice case, the Bihar government informed the Supreme Court that 13 individuals have been arrested in connection with the scam. The accused have been found with mobile phones and various other documents that are believed to be crucial evidence.
The Bihar government’s disclosure came during a hearing before Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud. The hearing was in response to a petition that sought a thorough investigation into the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG examination. The petitioners argued that the cheating scandal could compromise the integrity of the examination process and demanded stringent actions against the culprits.
The state’s counsel revealed that an FIR has been filed at the Shastrinagar police station, and the Economic Offences Unit (EOU) is actively involved in the investigation. The recovered materials include electronic devices and documents that are expected to shed light on the extent of the malpractice. These items are currently under forensic examination to gather further evidence.
Chief Justice Chandrachud, taking note of the seriousness of the matter, directed the state authorities to expedite the investigation and submit a detailed report on their findings. The court emphasized the importance of maintaining the sanctity of the examination system, which serves as a gateway for medical aspirants across the country.
The NEET-UG examination, which is a pivotal assessment for students seeking admission to undergraduate medical courses, has faced scrutiny following allegations of widespread cheating. The arrest of 13 individuals and the filing of the FIR at Shastrinagar mark significant steps in addressing these concerns and ensuring that justice is served.
The Bihar government assured the court of its commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation, promising to leave no stone unturned in uncovering the truth and prosecuting those responsible for the malpractice. The involvement of the EOU indicates the seriousness with which the authorities are treating this case.
As the investigation progresses, the authorities are expected to uncover more details about the network behind the cheating scam and the methods employed to manipulate the examination process. The Supreme Court has scheduled the next hearing for a later date to review the progress of the investigation and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to safeguard the integrity of the NEET-UG examination.
