Medical association moves SC, seeks overhaul of NEET-UG exam system over 'paper leak'
New Delhi (PTI): A medical association has moved the Supreme Court alleging “systemic failure” in the conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 exam for admissions in undergraduate medical courses and seeking reforms in the test system following the cancellation of the exam over irregularities.
The NEET (UG) 2026 exam held on May 3 by the National Testing Agency (NTA) was cancelled on May 12 amid allegations of paper leak which is now being probed by the CBI.
The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), through lawyer Tanvi Dubey, has moved the top court seeking a complete overhaul of the national testing framework, including the replacement of the NTA with a more robust and autonomous body.
The plea also referred to news reports that "guess papers" circulating on encrypted platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram matched more than 100 questions from the actual exam paper.
It urged the top court to direct the government to replace the NTA with a "technologically advanced and autonomous body" to restore the integrity of medical entrance exams.
FAIMA also asked the court to constitute a high-powered monitoring committee, chaired by a retired Supreme Court judge and including cybersecurity and forensic experts, to oversee the re-conduct of the 2026 exam.
The cancellation of the exam has left over 22 lakh medical aspirants and their families anxious about the next steps, including the fresh examination date, admit cards, examination centres and the counselling timeline.
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Vision Konkani felicitates 2025 Kendra Sahitya Academy Awardee HM Pernal in Mangaluru
NRI Entrepreneur, Philanthropist Michael D'Souza urges community to support Pernal's literary work
Mangaluru: Eminent Konkani writer and 2025 Sahitya Akademi awardee H. M. Pernal was felicitated at a grand function held at the Town Hall on Friday evening. The programme brought together literary figures, community leaders and admirers to celebrate Pernal's contribution to Konkani literature.
The felicitation ceremony was organised by Vision Konkani and presided over by NRI Entrepreneur and Philanthropist Michael D'Souza. Renowned Kannada poet and writer Jayant Kaikini attended as the chief guest.
The evening began with a musical presentation titled "Sitar Fusion" by Rafique Khan on sitar, Rajesh Bhagwat on tabla and Vaman Karkala providing rhythm accompaniment.
This was followed by a recital of H. M. Pernal's poems by Eddie Siqueira and Mahammad Muaad GM.
A special interactive session on "Celebration of Life and Literature" was later held with H. M. Pernal. The discussion was led by Shakuntala R. Kini and Wilson Kateel, offering insights into Pernal's literary journey and personal experiences.
During his address, Jayant Kaikini struck a humorous note by saying that the Konkan Railway Corporation Limited should reserve seats for Konkani writers. He said he was delighted that H. M. Pernal had received recognition for his literary work through the Sahitya Akademi award.
Kaikini expressed concern that while many people are writing poetry today, fewer are reading the works of established and accomplished writers. He noted that great artists throughout history have always shown interest in multiple forms of art rather than limiting themselves to a single field. Describing Pernal as an important pillar of Konkani literature, he said the writer's achievements deserved to be celebrated.
Presiding over the programme, Michael D'Souza said that quality is more important than quantity, and added that the same principle applies to literature. He called upon the community to support H. M. Pernal in his literary work and encouraged the veteran writer to continue serving the Konkani language. He also thanked all those who attended the event.
In his response, H. M. Pernal thanked the organisers, his family, community members and all those who had supported him over the years. He also shared his personal journey and recounted key moments from his life and literary career.
The programme included an introduction to the awardee, felicitation by the organising committee, and honours from various Konkani organisations.
Titus Noronha delivered the introductory remarks, while convener Melvyn Rodrigues proposed the vote of thanks.
The event concluded with a celebration attended by members of the Konkani literary community and admirers of H. M. Pernal.
