Government Asserts NEET-PG Percentile Reduction Follows Established Practice
The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that lowering the qualifying percentile for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Postgraduate (NEET-PG) courses is not an unprecedented move. This statement came during a hearing where the government defended its decision to adjust the cutoff scores for medical admissions.
Merit-Based Allocation Maintained Despite Percentile Change
In its submission, the government emphasized that even after the reduction in the qualifying percentile, the process of seat allotment continues to be strictly based on merit and the preferences of candidates. This ensures that the selection of students for postgraduate medical programs remains fair and transparent, aligning with the competitive nature of the examination.
The Centre highlighted that such adjustments have been made in the past to address various factors, including the availability of seats and the performance of candidates across different categories. By maintaining a merit-driven system, the government aims to optimize the filling of seats while upholding the standards of medical education in India.
Historical Context and Legal Justification
The government's argument rests on the premise that similar percentile reductions have been implemented in previous years without compromising the integrity of the admission process. This historical precedent is cited to justify the current decision, suggesting it is a routine administrative measure rather than an exceptional intervention.
Furthermore, the Centre assured the court that all necessary safeguards are in place to prevent any dilution of quality in medical training. The NEET-PG exam, which serves as the gateway for admissions to MD, MS, and diploma courses, is designed to assess the competency of aspiring doctors, and the government asserts that the percentile adjustment does not alter this fundamental objective.
The ongoing legal proceedings underscore the broader challenges in balancing accessibility and excellence in India's healthcare education sector. As the Supreme Court deliberates on this matter, stakeholders in the medical community await further clarity on the implications for future admission cycles.
