EducationNews – Opposition Questions Proposal to Use Air Force for NEET Paper Transport
EducationNews – Fresh political criticism has emerged over reports that the government is considering the use of the Indian Air Force to transport question papers for the upcoming NEET-UG re-examination. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut argued that such a proposal reflects deeper administrative shortcomings in the management of one of the country’s most important entrance examinations.
Raut Targets Government Over Exam Management
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Raut said that the armed forces are entrusted with protecting national security and safeguarding the country’s borders, not handling responsibilities that should fall under civilian examination authorities. According to him, the reported move highlights the inability of the examination system to prevent repeated security breaches.
The Rajya Sabha member pointed to the controversy surrounding alleged question paper leaks and said that thousands of students and families have faced uncertainty because of failures in the examination process. He described the reported plan as an indication that authorities have yet to address the root causes behind the recurring issues.
Demand for Accountability and Structural Reforms
Raut further alleged that the government was focusing on temporary measures rather than implementing long-term reforms. He argued that stronger action should be taken against individuals involved in examination irregularities and that institutional changes are necessary to restore confidence among students.
The opposition leader also questioned why senior ministers from different departments were required to discuss examination logistics. In his view, such discussions raise concerns about the effectiveness of the agencies responsible for conducting national-level entrance tests.
He emphasized that students deserve a transparent system and called for clear accountability from officials overseeing examination processes. According to Raut, restoring trust in competitive examinations should remain a priority.
Government Reviewing Additional Security Measures
Meanwhile, official sources indicated that the government is exploring several options to ensure the secure conduct of the NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for June 21. Among the measures under consideration is the possibility of using the Indian Air Force for transporting examination papers to various centres across the country.
The proposal was reportedly discussed during a high-level meeting held in New Delhi. The meeting was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and attended by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.
Sources familiar with the discussions stated that no final decision has been taken yet. The proposal is expected to be reviewed further before any formal approval is granted.
Background of the NEET-UG Controversy
NEET-UG, the entrance examination for undergraduate medical courses, was originally conducted on May 3 at hundreds of centres across India as well as several overseas locations. Nearly 23 lakh candidates had registered for the examination, which was administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
However, concerns regarding alleged question paper leaks triggered widespread controversy. Following these allegations, the NTA cancelled the examination on May 12 and announced a fresh test date.
The re-examination is now scheduled to take place on June 21, with authorities working to strengthen security arrangements and prevent any possibility of malpractice.
Investigation Continues Across Multiple Cities
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is handling the probe into the alleged paper leak case, has carried out searches in multiple locations across the country. Investigators continue to examine evidence related to the suspected examination fraud network.
According to available information, 13 individuals have been arrested so far from several cities, including Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Nasik, Pune, Latur and Ahilyanagar. The investigation remains ongoing as agencies seek to identify all those involved and determine the full extent of the alleged irregularities.