Karnataka CM Calls for Restoration of State Powers in Medical Entrance Exams Following NEET Controversy
Powers of states to conduct NEET must be reinstated: K’taka CM
Hindustan Times
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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has urged the central government to restore states' authority to conduct medical entrance exams, citing the recent NEET-UG 2026 cancellation due to a question paper leak. He argues that the centralized testing system disadvantages rural and poor students and calls for accountability from the Union Education Minister.
- 01Siddaramaiah demands restoration of state powers to conduct medical entrance exams.
- 02Cancellation of NEET-UG 2026 highlights flaws in the centralized testing system.
- 03Over 22 lakh students faced uncertainty due to the examination's cancellation.
- 04Karnataka's Education Minister criticizes the National Testing Agency's effectiveness.
- 05Calls for a transparent investigation into the question paper leak and accountability for officials.
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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has strongly advocated for the restoration of state powers to conduct medical entrance examinations, following the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2026 due to a question paper leak. He emphasized that this incident underscores the flaws of a centralized testing system, which he argues disadvantages rural and poor students while undermining the school education system. Over 22 lakh students, including more than one lakh from Karnataka, were affected after months of preparation, leading to significant distress among students and parents. Siddaramaiah described the central government's decision as a betrayal of the youth and called for a transparent investigation into the leak, demanding accountability from officials, including Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, whom he urged to resign. Karnataka's Minister for School Education, Madhu Bangarappa, echoed these sentiments, criticizing the National Testing Agency (NTA) and suggesting its abolition due to repeated failures in handling examinations. He also called for future consultations between the Centre and state governments regarding NEET.
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The reinstatement of state powers could lead to a more equitable examination process for students, particularly benefiting those from rural areas.
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