DMK MP P. Wilson Urges Rajya Sabha: Abolish NEET or Pass Tamil Nadu Bill For State Exemption
Hyderabad, 2nd July 2024
(Judicial Quest News Network)
NEET Controversy and Legislative Stand:
DMK MP P. Wilson voiced significant concerns regarding the NEET examination process, arguing that it disadvantages students from economically weaker backgrounds in Tamil Nadu. Historically, Tamil Nadu has favoured admission to MBBS courses based on +2 marks rather than a separate entrance exam like NEET. The state government passed the ‘Tamil Nadu Admission to Under Graduate Medical Degree Courses Bill, 2021’, seeking exemption from NEET, which is pending approval after being forwarded to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
Wilson highlighted recent issues surrounding NEET, including question paper leaks, irregular handling of answers, and subsequent legal cases and CBI inquiries. He criticized NEET as fostering corruption and allowing manipulation, citing instances where exam papers were purchasable and results tampered with, even though online platforms. He emphasized the delay in addressing these issues, questioning why action was taken only after legal challenges and significant delays in ordering investigations.
Wilson also referenced the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, aimed at curbing malpractices like paper leaks, but criticized its delayed implementation post-NEET exam scandals. He raised concerns about the accountability of the National Testing Agency (NTA), responsible for conducting NEET and other exams, suggesting it operates without statutory backing, potentially evading consequences for corruption.
State Infrastructure and Funding Issues
Addressing state-specific issues, Wilson pointed out delays in central approval for Phase-II of the Chennai Metro Rail Project, despite being recommended by the Public Investment Board (PIB) and funded partially by the state. He urged the Prime Minister to expedite the approval process, citing the project’s importance for Chennai’s development and the strain on state finances due to self-funding.
Wilson also highlighted Tamil Nadu’s claims for National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) compensation after Cyclone Michaung and heavy rainfall in December 2023. He criticized the Union Government’s inadequate response to the state’s claim of Rs. 37,907.21 crores, emphasizing the urgent need for Rs. 3,000 crores to restore infrastructure and aid affected communities.
In conclusion, Wilson called for immediate action from the Union Government: either approve Tamil Nadu’s NEET exemption bill or amend the National Medical Commission Act to eliminate NEET nationally. He urged faster processing of infrastructure projects and adequate compensation for disaster relief, emphasizing the state’s pressing needs and the Union Government’s responsibility to address them promptly.
This comprehensive address by DMK MP P. Wilson underscores the legal and administrative challenges posed by NEET and infrastructure funding in Tamil Nadu, advocating for swift governmental action to address these critical issues affecting the state and its citizens.
