The Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court, taking suo motu cognisance of a media report highlighting inadequate infrastructure at examination centres, on Friday directed authorities to immediately ensure basic facilities for candidates appearing in upcoming competitive exams, including NEET (UG) scheduled for May 3.
Court Observations on Infrastructure Deficiencies
A division bench comprising Justices Anil Kilor and Raj Wakode observed that several centres in Nagpur and across the Vidarbha region may lack proper ventilation, availability of air and cooling arrangements, access to potable drinking water, and basic medical assistance. The court noted that such conditions expose students to risks such as dehydration and heat exhaustion, particularly during the summer months when these exams are conducted.
The bench emphasised that the issue is not merely one of administrative inadequacy but directly concerns the health and well-being of students. Invoking Article 21 of the Constitution, the court underlined that conducting exams in unsafe conditions would violate the right to live with dignity. It stressed that candidates, after years of preparation, should not be subjected to avoidable hardships during such crucial tests.
Amicus Curiae Highlights Wider Problem
The proceedings arose from a Suo Motu Public Interest Litigation registered after a media report flagged concerns over arrangements for NEET candidates. Amicus Curiae Aastha Sharma informed the court that similar deficiencies extend to other major examinations, including CA final and State-CET entrance tests. She argued that the lack of basic amenities could adversely affect student performance and mental well-being.
Cautioning authorities, the bench noted that any situation causing discomfort to students during the examination can directly affect their performance and the dreams they have been pursuing for the past few years. The court stressed that candidates should not face avoidable hardships during such critical assessments.
Reference to Precedent
Referring to a 2025 ruling by the Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court, later upheld by the Supreme Court, the bench reiterated that authorities must ensure uninterrupted power supply, proper seating, cooling arrangements, and other essential facilities. The earlier judgment had warned that lapses during exams could leave students and families feeling they could not reach a place they dreamed in life, underscoring the high stakes involved.
Directions Issued by the Court
The court issued notices to the Union government, the state government, and other respondents, returnable on May 7. It directed the state authorities to forthwith ensure that all examination centres in Vidarbha are equipped with adequate ventilation, air coolers or fans, uninterrupted electricity, and sufficient drinking water, in line with National Testing Agency guidelines issued on January 10, 2026.
Counsel for all parties waived formal service of notice and undertook to communicate the order immediately, ensuring swift implementation of the court's directives. The next hearing is scheduled for May 7, when compliance reports are expected to be submitted.
