NEET Scandal: Expert Panel Warns Tech Alone Cannot Stop Exam Paper Leaks

The recent protests over the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) medical entrance exam have brought India's recurring problem of exam paper leaks into sharp focus. The unrest, which led to the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, has prompted the government to form a task force led by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani to overhaul the National Testing Agency (NTA). However, experts and the Supreme Court have cautioned that shifting to computer-based testing (CBT) alone may not be sufficient to prevent leaks.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed the task force after reports that more than 20 students died by suicide, with families blaming the exam scandal. The task force is expected to recommend reforms to make the examination process more secure. Among the suggestions is a move from pen-and-paper tests to CBT, which the government believes will reduce the risk of question papers being stolen or leaked.

But the Supreme Court, while hearing petitions on the matter, welcomed the government's efforts but warned that technology alone cannot eliminate the problem. The court's caution highlights a deeper challenge: the issue is not just about technology but about trust, governance, and incentives within the system.

The NEET paper leaks of 2024 and 2026 illustrate the complexity. NEET uses four versions of the question paper, each with 180 compulsory questions across physics, chemistry, and biology. Despite these precautions, leaks have occurred, suggesting that human factors—such as corruption, inadequate oversight, and lack of accountability—play a significant role.

The task force faces the difficult task of designing a system that not only leverages technology but also addresses the underlying structural issues. This includes ensuring transparency, strengthening the chain of custody for exam materials, and imposing strict penalties for those involved in leaks. The success of the reforms will depend on whether they can restore public confidence in the examination system.

As the government moves forward, it must balance the need for efficiency with the imperative of fairness. The NEET scandal has already cost lives and eroded trust; any solution must be comprehensive and credible. The task force's recommendations are awaited with hope and skepticism.