M.K. Stalin, former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, has sharply criticized the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET). He stated the exam has failed its intended purposes. These aims were to reduce student burden, stop commercialization, and improve education standards. Stalin claims none of these goals have been met. He argues NEET has moved learning away from schools. It now pushes students towards costly coaching centers. His comments follow growing protests over a NEET paper leak. Students in New Delhi are demanding action. Stalin reiterated his long-standing call for NEET's abolition.
NEET's Unmet Promises
The exam was introduced with three key promises. These were reducing student burden, eliminating commercialization, and improving standards. Stalin asserts NEET has failed on all three counts. He stated, "#NEET has failed. It has merely shifted the centre of learning from schools to coaching centres." This shift increases pressure. It makes medical admissions less fair. Stalin believes NEET has not reduced inequality. Instead, it has empowered coaching centers.
Call for State Control
Stalin argues the core issue with NEET is structural. He believes merit is no longer based on consistent school performance. Instead, students are judged on their ability to perform in coaching-driven tests. This, he says, creates immense pressure. It also contributes to unfair admissions. He advocates for state governments to manage medical admissions. This would allow for systems suited to local students and educational structures.
Paper Leak Sparks Protests
The former Chief Minister urged the Union Government to heed student protests. He called for NEET's abolition. States wishing for an exemption should be allowed to opt out. Stalin stated that diverse admission policies do not weaken standards. He believes diversity can enhance fairness and excellence. He advised the Union Government to consult openly. Uniformity should not be the sole objective. India needs trust in state schools and students, not more centralization.
NEET UG 2026 Controversy
Stalin's remarks coincide with anger over the NEET UG 2026 paper leak. The exam was initially held on May 3, 2026 . It was later canceled on May 12, 2026 . This followed reports of a paper leak. The Ministry of Education announced a RE-NEET scheduled for June 21, 2026 . Protests in New Delhi include demands for Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation.
