Archive · 28 Jul 2026
SC Awaits Nilekani Panel Recommendations on NEET Online Transition
The Supreme Court is waiting for recommendations from a high-powered task force led by Nandan Nilekani on how to make the NEET exam online.
The court wants to ensure that the transition is secure and reliable.
The task force includes experts from various fields like technology, education, and security.
The court is concerned about cybersecurity and database protection.
The NEET exam was cancelled earlier due to a paper leak, and the court is considering reforms to prevent such issues in the future.
The next hearing is scheduled for August 3, 2026.
The Supreme Court is awaiting recommendations from the Nandan Nilekani-led task force on transitioning NEET to an online format.
The court emphasized the need for enhanced cybersecurity and database protection in online exams.
The task force includes experts from ISRO, IIT Madras, the Intelligence Bureau, and the Ministry of Education.
The NEET-UG exam was cancelled on May 3, 2026, due to alleged paper leaks, and a retest was conducted on June 21, 2026.
The court will consider the task force's recommendations before deciding on the future format of NEET.
- Who
- Supreme Court of India, Nandan Nilekani-led task force, RJD MP Sudhakar Singh
- What
- Transition of NEET from pen-and-paper to computer-based test (CBT) mode
- When
- Next hearing on August 3, 2026
- Where
- Supreme Court of India
- Why
- To address concerns over exam integrity, security, and the need for technological reforms
Proponents of Online NEET
Critics of Online NEET
Security and Integrity
Proponents of Online NEET
Proponents argue that transitioning to an online format will enhance security through digital locking, biometric verification, and AI monitoring, reducing the risk of paper leaks.
Critics of Online NEET
Critics express concerns about the vulnerability of online systems to cyberattacks and data breaches, questioning the adequacy of current cybersecurity measures.
Accessibility and Infrastructure
Proponents of Online NEET
Supporters believe that online exams will make the process more accessible and efficient, with the potential for multi-session testing and reduced logistical challenges.
Critics of Online NEET
Opponents argue that the lack of adequate infrastructure in remote and underserved regions could disadvantage certain candidates, exacerbating existing inequalities.
- Committee Head
- Nandan Nilekani
- Committee Members
- S Somanath, Tapan Deka, V Kamakoti, Anita Karwal, Amrit Lal Meena
- Petitioner
- RJD MP Sudhakar Singh
- Exam Cancellation Date
- May 3, 2026
- Retest Date
- June 21, 2026
- Next Hearing Date
- August 3, 2026
- Proposed Penalties for Fraud
- Imprisonment up to 10 years and fines up to ₹10 crore
Sources
‘He’s an expert’: Centre says Nandan Nilekani panel to address data security of online NEET
‘How is database secured'? SC says will see what Nandan Nilekani-led task force suggests on online NEET exam
NEET paper leak controversy: What a 2024 report said about reforming India’s entrance exams
Will see what Nilekani-led team suggests on NEET
SC to review Nandan Nilekani panel's suggestions on NEET
Supreme Court To Await Nandan Nilekani Panel's Recommendations Before Deciding On Online NEET
NEET-UG Exam: SC To Examine Nandan Nilekani Panel Recommendations Before Decision On Pen-and-Paper Format
