The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPM) has announced that it will hold demonstrations across Tamil Nadu on June 22, demanding an exemption for the state from the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). The announcement was made by CPM state secretary K Balakrishnan on Wednesday.Balakrishnan highlighted a series of irregularities associated with the NEET examination since its inception, stating that these issues have escalated this year. “Ever since the commencement of the NEET examination, there have been reports of various irregularities taking place in the NEET examination. This year the irregularities have reached their peak,” he said.
He pointed out that students nationwide have been protesting continuously against these irregularities. Furthermore, the Supreme Court has remarked that the ‘sanctity’ of the NEET examination has been compromised. Balakrishnan stressed that the ongoing blunders in this crucial examination could degrade the medical field and adversely affect public health and well-being.
In his statement, Balakrishnan demanded that the union government should permit the state government to conduct its admissions for medical courses this year. “An inquiry should be ordered into NEET examination irregularities,” he insisted, calling for a permanent exemption for Tamil Nadu from NEET.
The CPM’s demonstrations on June 22 aim to raise awareness and garner support for this cause. The protests will take place across the state, with party members and supporters participating to voice their demands.
The call for demonstrations comes in the wake of mounting criticism of NEET, which has faced allegations of favoritism, corruption, and systemic issues that undermine its fairness. The demand for exemption reflects a broader sentiment in Tamil Nadu, where many believe that NEET disadvantages local students and fails to consider the state’s unique educational context.