Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Announces Reforms Amid NEET and UGC NET Controversies

New Delhi: In response to widespread student protests, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan addressed the ongoing controversies surrounding the NEET examination and the abrupt cancellation of the UGC NET during a press conference on Thursday.

Pradhan announced the establishment of a high-level committee to reform the National Testing Agency (NTA). “The committee will make recommendations to improve NTA’s structure, functioning, examination process, transparency, and data security protocols,” he stated. The minister emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing a “zero-error examination” system, ensuring accountability for any malpractices. “The government will not spare anyone found responsible,” Pradhan assured.

He also urged the public to refrain from spreading misinformation regarding the sensitive NEET issue. “We are committed to protecting students’ interests and will not compromise on transparency,” Pradhan emphasized. He revealed that the government is in close contact with Bihar authorities and has ordered the Patna police to submit a detailed report on the matter promptly.

The minister pledged strict action against any guilty parties, whether within the NTA or among senior officials. This announcement comes after the government initially denied allegations of a NEET exam paper leak due to a lack of evidence. However, the Supreme Court has since intervened, halting all related cases in high courts nationwide and issuing notices to the NTA and central government.

The controversy escalated further when the UGC-NET examination was cancelled a day after it began, leading to mass protests by students outside the minister’s residence. Today’s media briefing was prompted by these demonstrations, highlighting the urgent need for resolution.

In his concluding remarks, Pradhan reiterated the government’s dedication to transparency and integrity in the examination process. “We are taking all necessary steps to ensure the credibility of our testing systems and safeguard the future of our students,” he said.