The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), India’s entrance exam for MBBS and BDS programs, has come under severe criticism for allegedly undermining the right to education, the Constitution, and social justice, according to J Amalorpavanathan, a member of the State Planning Commission.
During a discussion organized by Voice of TN on Sunday, doctors, students, and representatives from educational and health forums voiced strong objections to the exam.
Experts highlighted three key issues this year: the awarding of grace marks to some students, allegations of a leaked question paper, and suspected irregularities at certain exam centers.
“This test primarily benefits private coaching institutes financially, raising questions about its effectiveness as a true indicator of medical aptitude,” said Amalorpavanathan, emphasizing Tamil Nadu’s long-standing opposition to NEET.
In 2021, retired High Court Judge a K Rajan submitted a report to Chief Minister M K Stalin, challenging the notion that NEET simplifies the entrance process, increases transparency, and improves educational quality. “NEET makes no effort to effectively measure a student’s learning capabilities and aptitude. The fact that a student’s NEET score is the sole criterion for admission to the MBBS course exceeds all scientific forms and principles of an entrance exam,” retired Judge Rajan said during the discussion.
The criticism of NEET extends beyond Tamil Nadu. A pediatrician from Uttar Pradesh stated that other states are also being affected. “This exam affects not only higher education, but also quality of life. It has become a weapon for abolishing reservations and a reservation for the wealthy,” he stated.
Maruthaiyan, a Voice of TN member, stated that members of the DMK youth wing, along with activists, to protest NEET on July 3, one month after the test results are released.
The conversation stressed the importance of using an alternative system to measure a student’s conceptual comprehension rather than depending simply on a single entrance exam. The opinion was clear: NEET, in its current form, is not the greatest way to choose future medical professionals.
