The Madras High Court criticized the National Testing Agency (NTA) officials for the delay in submitting a report on the 2019 NEET fraud case, warning that the officials could face arrest. The court expressed dissatisfaction with the NTA’s handling of the case, emphasizing the need for accountability and prompt action.
Chennai: The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court criticized the National Testing Agency (NTA) for not submitting a report regarding the 2019 NEET fraud case.
This case initiated after authorities discovered that students used deceptive methods to gain admission to Theni Medical College, including employing impostors to take the medical entrance exam on their behalf.
The Crime Branch of the Criminal Investigation Department (CB-CID) took over the investigation, resulting in the arrest of Udith Surya from Chennai, identified as the primary accused. Subsequently, cases filed against 26 additional individuals, including parents and brokers.
One of the accused, Tharun Kumar, filed a petition with the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court seeking release. During the hearing, Justice Pugazhendi requested a response from the state.
The state counsel reported that the NTA failed to provide any relevant reports, which caused delays in the investigation. The NTA counsel requested more time to submit the report.
Justice Pugazhendi criticized the testing agency, emphasizing that the case had been unresolved for five years. He pointed out irregularities in the examination process, noting that a student , not even in India had managed to take the exam in three different states.
The judge implied that NTA officials could be involved in the fraud case, noting their failure to submit essential documents. He raised the possibility of issuing an order to search the homes and offices of the officers under suspicion.
The court cautioned that if the testing agency officials continued to be inactive, they could face arrest.
The NTA Counsel guaranteed that the reports would be provided by Tuesday, resulting in the case being postponed to July 16.