NEET-UG Paper Leak: Centre Tells SC It Weighs Computer-Based Test Shift

Centre Flags Computer-Based Testing Option

The Union government on Tuesday told the Supreme Court that a shift to computer-based testing for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) is under active consideration. The submission came during a hearing related to the NEET-UG paper leak case, where the Centre is seeking to reassure the court about the integrity of the examination process.

Additional Solicitor General, appearing for the Centre, said the National Testing Agency (NTA) has been examining ways to make the exam tamper-proof. The move towards computer-based testing would represent a significant departure from the current pen-and-paper format, which has faced repeated scrutiny over alleged leaks.

Centre Wants to Explain Entire Process

The Centre expressed its desire to place on record a detailed explanation of the entire NEET-UG process, from the printing of question papers to the moment students receive them. This step-by-step breakdown is intended to demonstrate the safeguards currently in place and identify potential vulnerabilities.

"From printing till students get the paper," the Centre told the court, seeking to walk the bench through every stage. The explanation is expected to cover the chain of custody of question papers, the number of personnel involved, and the security protocols at each transfer point. The court has been pressing for transparency in the wake of allegations that question papers were leaked before the exam.

Comprehensive Overhaul Claimed

The Centre told the Supreme Court that it has undertaken a comprehensive overhaul of the examination system to eliminate paper leaks. This includes changes to the printing process, enhanced digital tracking, and stricter access controls. The government maintains that the current system is now robust enough to prevent any repeat of the incidents that led to widespread protests and legal challenges.

Petitioners in the case have, however, questioned the adequacy of these measures, citing reports of leaks in previous years. The court has been hearing arguments on whether the exam should be re-conducted or if the existing results can be upheld. The Centre's assurance of a revamped process is likely to weigh heavily on the final decision.

What the Court Is Examining

The Supreme Court's scrutiny comes after multiple petitions sought a re-test, claiming that the integrity of NEET-UG was compromised. The bench has been examining whether the leak affected a significant number of candidates and whether the current results can be considered reliable. The Centre's offer to place safeguards on record is seen as an attempt to convince the court that the 2026 exam was conducted fairly.

While the court has not yet indicated a timeline for its verdict, it has asked the Centre to file an affidavit detailing the measures. The hearing is part of a series of daily round-ups that have kept the issue in the public eye, with lakhs of medical aspirants awaiting clarity on their future.

What Happens Next

The Supreme Court is expected to hear further arguments after the Centre files its detailed affidavit on the safeguards. A decision on whether to order a re-test or accept the current results will have far-reaching implications for over 20 lakh candidates who appeared for NEET-UG this year. For now, the focus remains on whether the Centre's overhaul passes judicial scrutiny.