8 July 2025 | Jaipur
In a significant decision impacting NEET-UG 2025 candidates, the Rajasthan High Court has rejected a batch of petitions seeking either a re-examination or grant of grace marks due to alleged irregularities including power outages and logistical lapses at several examination centers across the state during the conduct of NEET-UG held on 5 May 2025.
Petitioners Cited Power Disruptions, Inadequate Facilities
The petitioners — including students and concerned guardians — had approached the High Court alleging:
• Sudden power failure at multiple exam centers.
• Delayed distribution of question papers.
• Faulty OMR sheets and insufficient invigilator response.
• Overall lack of fair and equal examination conditions.
They argued that these deficiencies materially impacted the performance of several candidates and therefore sought either a retest for the affected centers or bonus marks to compensate for the disruptions.
The Division Bench, while hearing the matter, observed that:
• The National Testing Agency (NTA) had already conducted inquiries into the allegations.
• There was no conclusive evidence to suggest that the irregularities were widespread or systemic.
• Minor or isolated disruptions, while unfortunate, do not justify setting aside the national-level exam or altering the result framework for over 24 lakh candidates.
The Court emphasized that:
“Judicial interference in large-scale competitive exams must be exercised with extreme caution. The sanctity of the process cannot be disturbed unless gross and proven injustice is evident.”
NTA Submitted Internal Reports
The NTA, in its counter-affidavit, maintained that:
• Exam centres were equipped with power backup systems.
• Wherever technical issues arose, time compensation was given.
• No breach of examination integrity or pattern of disadvantage was found upon verification.
The High Court found no merit in the petitioners’ claim that the issues led to discriminatory outcomes or violated Article 14 (Right to Equality) or Article 21 (Right to Education/Opportunity).
NEET-UG Results Will Stand
This decision adds to the series of judicial rulings across the country affirming the validity of NEET-UG 2025, following a spate of similar petitions filed in various High Courts and the Supreme Court.
The Rajasthan High Court’s dismissal ensures that the results published by NTA will remain unchanged, and the counselling process will proceed as per schedule.
• Case Title: XYZ & Ors. v. Union of India & National Testing Agency
