New Delhi:
The Supreme Court has decided to visit the new headquarters of the National Testing Agency in Delhi to assess its infrastructure and manpower as part of its continuing scrutiny of reforms in the examination body.
A Bench comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe is examining petitions seeking structural changes in the NTA following the NEET-UG paper leak controversy and the concerns raised over the conduct of major entrance examinations.
The court was informed that the NTA has shifted to a permanent headquarters and strengthened its leadership and security arrangements. The Bench has, however, stressed the need for adequate permanent staff and stronger institutional and statutory support.
The court is also monitoring recommendations of a high-powered task force headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani. The committee is examining technological and administrative reforms, including computer-based testing and digitisation of question-paper management.
The Bench has sought a progress affidavit from the task force and directed that the NTA’s affidavit be made available on its website for stakeholders to examine.