CBI chief vows logical end to NEET probe, NTA says computer-based test will curb leaks

NEW DELHI: The National Testing Agency told a parliamentary committee on Friday that it is taking measures to rule out a repeat of the NEET paper leak, which has affected lakhs of students, while the National Medical Commission said it will work to keep the admission seat matrix for counselling on schedule so that students are not further impacted.

In his comments to the parliamentary committee on govt assurances, CBI director Praveen Sood said the probe agency will take its investigation to a logical conclusion amid the possibility of more arrests, people in the know said.

Though the committee's agenda pertained to the NEET paper irregularities in 2024, its members expressed anguish at the latest leak, which has led to the cancellation of the exam and a re-exam on June 21, and quizzed officials over the current investigations and measures being taken to make the examination foolproof.

NTA, which was represented by DG Abhishek Singh and others, said NEET's switch to CBT (computer-based test) from the next year, coupled with a much wider pool of questions, will lead to a multitude of test papers, like JEE's, which is likely to minimise the risk of leaks.

Secretaries of higher education and health ministries were among the officials who appeared before the committee headed by AIADMK's M Thambi Durai, as MPs asked them to ensure that counselling is held on time and seat matrix distribution of seats across different categories goes accordingly.

NMC chairman Abhijat Chandrakant Sheth assured them that appropriate measures will be taken.

And NTA said it is in active consultation with other stakeholders to foster a more secure examination system.