Karnataka Deputy Chief K'taka & TN strengthen resolve to scrap NEET exam expressed serious consideration towards adopting Tamil Nadu’s approach regarding the NEET examination. The state government is considering a move to scrap the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET).
Highlighting concerns over equitable access to medical education, Shivakumar remarked, “As previously mentioned, we have established colleges, but many are unable to secure seats for their children or those from their communities. Additionally, there are grievances regarding the legality of the NEET exam, causing further disparities. In light of these issues, discussions have been initiated to explore the Tamil Nadu model.”
Emphasising his personal stance on the matter rather than an official government position, Shivakumar stressed the need for extensive deliberations on the injustices faced by Karnataka students. He advocated for a reservation system, clarifying that the issue is distinct and must be addressed independently.
'Tamil Nadu model' of NEET exam
The “Tamil Nadu model” referenced by Shivakumar pertains to the state’s legislative decision to base admissions to medical colleges on secondary examination marks, circumventing the use of NEET scores. This move by Tamil Nadu has been justified as a means to ensure access to medical education for Tamil-speaking students and economically disadvantaged children.
After the irregularities that have surfaced in NEET-UG exam, the Tamil Nadu government has expressed its disregard for the exam for admission into medical and dental colleges.
The controversy has reiterated the state government’s resolve to eradicate the competitive exam as it does not favour the Tamil-speaking students.
The Tamil Nadu government placed a volley of questions to the National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts NEET, which also included the ruckus around grace marks. It clearly stated that latecomers are not given grace marks rather they are not allowed to enter the examination hall.
Tamil Nadu has always opposed NEET and listed the measures taken by the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam to get the exam scrapped for students from Tamil Nadu.
As per the state government, NEET not just undermines federal polity, and is against social justice. The minister said the DMK government passed a bill against NEET in the Tamil Nadu Assembly in 2021, which was returned by the Governor in 2022 but was sent back to him once again.
The bill is pending before the President of India. Several Union ministries sought many clarifications and the state government responded to every query.
NEET has been a contentious issue in Tamil Nadu where the exam is perceived as ‘anti-poor’ and ‘discriminatory’ in nature against students from government schools and from rural backgrounds.
At least two dozens students have died by suicide since 2017 due to failure of clearing the exam or fear of appearing before it. Reportedly, the NEET coaching centres had become a Rs 5,750 crore industry in the state.
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