Controversy in Karnataka: NEET Exam for Medical Admissions Set to Be Scrapped

Karnataka government introduced an in-state medical entrance test for NEET UG and NEET PG admission highlighting that NEET preparation fees are not affordable for most poor and rural students.

New Delhi: The Karnataka Government decided to launch its entrance test instead of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for medical admissions in the state. On 22 July 2024, the government approved a proposal to remove NEET training from the admission criteria for undergraduate and postgraduate medical courses.

New Entrance Test for Medical Courses

The NEET UG exam is conducted for MBBS and BDS course admissions, while NEET PG is for MD, MS, and PG Diploma courses nationwide. However, Karnataka proposes to introduce its entrance test for medical course admissions if the bill passes during the ongoing session. The authorities argue that NEET disadvantages state-board students, as they are conducted unfairly in their home state.

Statement from Deputy Chief Minister

D.K. Shivakumar Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka emphasized the need for a state-based entrance exam and said, "NEET must be scrapped immediately and the union government must allow states to conduct their exams. Karnataka has built colleges but NEET is benefiting North Indian students and depriving our students We all need to fight against this.

Tamil Nadu Introduces State-based Medical Admission

Karnataka followed Tamil Nadu, which proposed not considering NEET in June 2024 and introducing a state-based medical admission system based on Class 12 scores. Tamil Nadu officials argued that NEET preparation is unaffordable for many poor and rural students. Karnataka government’s decision comes after the NEET paper leak controversy and the cabinet approves the proposal to eliminate NEET and set up a new state entrance exam.

In addition to the NEET decision, the Karnataka cabinet proposed establishing the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) to take over financial control from the current Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). They also plan to present a resolution against the "one nation, one election" policy to be laid before the assembly session on Tuesday or Wednesday.

Frequently Asked Questions:(FAQs)

Ques. Why scrap NEET?

Ans. NEET is scrapped because of:

1. Fairness for state students: Karnataka argues NEET puts their students at a disadvantage compared to students from other regions with different curriculums.
2. Accessibility concerns: The government says NEET's high-pressure environment and coaching costs make it difficult for rural and underprivileged students.
3. Paper leak controversy: The recent leak of the NEET paper raised questions about the exam's integrity.

Ques. What will replace NEET?

Ans. Karnataka plans to introduce its own state-specific medical entrance exam. Details about the format and eligibility are yet to be finalised.

Ques. Is this legal?

Ans. Karnataka needs central government approval to scrap NEET. The legality of the move will likely be challenged in court.

Ques. Who supports scrapping NEET?

Ans. NEET scrapping supports:

1. Karnataka government, particularly the Deputy Chief Minister argues for state-conducted exams.
2. Supporters believe NEET disadvantages rural and underprivileged students.