The Supreme Court has postponed the hearing on petitions challenging the transparency of the NEET PG 2024 examination process. The hearing, initially scheduled for October 4, 2024, has been delayed due to the unavailability of Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud. A new date for the hearing is expected to be announced soon, keeping candidates and the medical community in anticipation of clarity on the matter.
As per a Hindustan Times report, the petitions address multiple concerns regarding the NEET PG 2024 examination. Aspirants and stakeholders have raised objections over several transparency-related issues, which include sudden last-minute changes to the exam pattern, a lack of clarity on the marking scheme, and the non-disclosure of question papers and answer keys. Many candidates have argued that these factors compromise the fairness of the examination, which is crucial for determining postgraduate medical placements across the country.
The petitions have garnered significant attention from the medical community and aspiring doctors alike, with many expressing frustrations over the lack of transparency and what they see as inconsistencies in the examination process. The petitioners have emphasised the need for a transparent approach to maintaining the credibility of the NEET PG examination, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of thousands of medical professionals in India.
Meanwhile, despite the legal proceedings, the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC) has initiated the NEET PG 2024 counselling process. Round 1 registration for counselling started on September 20, allowing eligible candidates to complete and submit their counselling forms via the MCC website. Additionally, state-level counselling updates are available for states such as Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh, providing region-specific guidance to candidates.
The counselling phase is critical, as it allocates postgraduate seats to medical candidates based on their NEET PG scores. However, with the pending Supreme Court hearing, many aspirants are concerned about potential impacts on the process, exceptionally if the court orders any revisions or interventions.
The postponement has elicited a wave of responses from aspirants anxiously awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision. Candidates are hopeful that the judicial intervention will lead to greater transparency in the exam process, providing assurance and fairness for those investing substantial time and resources in their medical careers. The medical fraternity, too, is closely watching the developments, as the court’s verdict could set precedents for handling similar issues in future medical entrance examinations.
Aspirants are advised to monitor the MCC website for ongoing updates regarding the counselling process and the Supreme Court’s announcement of a new hearing date. With the hearing rescheduled, many are optimistic that the Supreme Court’s intervention will address their concerns, potentially reforming aspects of the NEET PG examination process to prioritise transparency and fairness in medical education admissions.