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SC Orders Release of NEET-PG Scores, Answer Keys & Normalization Formula
In a significant step towards ensuring transparency and fairness in competitive examinations, the Supreme Court of India has directed the National Board of Examinations (NBE) to publish the raw scores, answer keys, and normalization formula used in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduate courses (NEET-PG).
This landmark decision, delivered on May 21, 2025, comes in response to increasing concerns among candidates regarding the opacity of the evaluation process. The ruling is expected to impact thousands of medical aspirants across the country and may set a precedent for other national-level entrance exams.
What the Supreme Court Said
A bench headed by Justice P.S. Narasimha observed that the right to information and procedural transparency in examinations is fundamental. The Court emphasized that candidates have a right to understand how their marks were derived, especially when the stakes are so high for postgraduate admissions.
The apex court directed the NBE to:
- Release the raw scores of all candidates who appeared for NEET-PG.
- Make public the answer keys used for evaluating the exam.
- Disclose the normalization formula or method used to ensure fairness, especially where different exam slots or sessions were involved.
The court stated that these documents must be published on the official NBE website within two weeks from the date of the order.
Why This Matters
NEET-PG is a critical exam for medical graduates seeking admission to postgraduate courses like MD, MS, and diploma programs in India. Every year, over 2 lakh candidates take this high-stakes test.
In recent years, many students and educational activists have raised concerns over the lack of transparency in the scoring system. Candidates often receive their final scores without any insight into their actual answers or the logic behind their rankings, especially when normalization is involved.
The normalization process—used to adjust scores when exams are conducted in multiple shifts—has been a particular area of confusion. The absence of publicly available information on how scores are adjusted has led to widespread frustration and allegations of bias.
By ordering the disclosure of the answer keys and normalization method, the Supreme Court has aimed to eliminate doubts and restore faith in the examination process.
Petitions That Prompted the Verdict
The verdict comes after multiple petitions were filed by NEET-PG candidates and advocacy groups who demanded greater accountability from the NBE. The petitioners argued that:
- Candidates have no way to verify their results.
- There is no transparency in the normalization process.
- The absence of answer keys prevents fair review or rechecking.
In response, the Supreme Court acknowledged these concerns and stressed the need for examination authorities to adopt fair, open practices in line with principles of natural justice.
NBE’s Response and What’s Next
The National Board of Examinations, which conducts the NEET-PG under the oversight of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has yet to issue an official statement. However, compliance with the Court’s order is mandatory, and updates are expected on their website soon.
Candidates are advised to regularly check the official NBE website for updates regarding:
- Official publication of answer keys
- Individual raw score sheets
- Explanation of the normalization formula used
This development is also likely to affect the counseling and admission process, as candidates may now request reviews or raise objections based on the newly available data.
Experts Welcome the Move
Educational experts and transparency advocates have largely welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision. Dr. Sunil Mehta, an education policy analyst, said, “This is a much-needed step. For too long, candidates have been kept in the dark about how they are evaluated. Transparency builds trust, and trust is essential in high-stakes testing.”
Students across social media platforms have expressed relief and support, with many saying this move will help ensure fairer outcomes and discourage malpractice.
Impact on Other Competitive Exams
The ruling is expected to have a ripple effect on other competitive exams conducted in India, especially those involving multiple shifts or computer-based testing formats. Exams like NEET-UG, JEE, and even state-level medical or engineering entrance tests may soon face similar calls for transparency.
Advocacy groups have already hinted at preparing similar legal petitions for other national-level exams where score normalization and opaque marking systems are used.
A Step Forward for Fair Exams
In an age where data and digital exams dominate, the Supreme Court’s direction brings much-needed clarity and fairness to the process. With lakhs of candidates relying on these exams for their career paths, the need for trust and transparency cannot be overstated.
The judgment not only ensures that NEET-PG candidates get a fair look into their performance but also signals a broader shift in how educational assessments are viewed in India. It’s a reminder that in any merit-based system, accountability is just as important as ability.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s directive to the NBE to release raw scores, answer keys, and normalization formulas is a milestone for exam transparency in India. It assures students that their efforts are assessed fairly and gives them the tools to understand and verify their results. As this decision unfolds, all eyes will be on how the NBE implements these changes and what it means for the future of competitive exams in the country.
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