Centre Sacks 47 Officials In Overhaul Following Exam Leaks, Massive Student Protest

NEW DELHI- As part of a complete overhaul of the examination system, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has terminated 47 officials, sources in the Union Education Ministry said on July 24.

Sources in the Union Education Ministry said legal and criminal action may also be initiated against some of the officials amid allegations of the NEET paper leak and other examination irregularities.

Education Ministry sources said the revamp will focus on improving the functioning of the NTA, which conducts at least 20 national-level examinations, including NEET, JEE and CUET.

One of the key changes under consideration is revising the agency’s outsourcing methods to strengthen security and create a more leak-proof examination system, the sources said.

A committee of experts has been tasked with recommending reforms to make the NTA a more efficient organization. Education Ministry sources said the restructuring exercise is expected to be completed within the next month.

The agency has been under intense scrutiny following allegations of the NEET paper leak and growing demands for examination reforms.

Earlier on July 24, the Union Cabinet approved a proposed Bill and related provisions aimed at setting up fast-track courts and prescribing tougher punishment in cases of paper leaks and examination malpractices, official sources said. The legislation is expected to be introduced in Parliament next week.

The move follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement on July 23 that the government would introduce a Bill with stronger provisions to curb paper leaks.

According to the proposed legislation, the fast-track courts will be required to complete trials and deliver judgments within three months, sources said. (IANS)