Education groups flag NEET, CBSE issues; demand reforms, judicial inquiry

A coalition of teachers' bodies, student organisations and education groups under the Joint Forum for Movement on Education (JFME) has voiced strong concerns over what it calls a growing crisis in India's education system. In a statement, the forum pointed to examination controversies, evaluation-related complaints and increasing dependence on centralised testing systems as issues that are affecting millions of students across the country.

The forum argued that repeated problems in national-level examinations have created uncertainty among students and parents, while also putting immense academic and emotional pressure on aspirants. It claimed that these challenges are no longer isolated incidents but signs of deeper structural issues within the education system.

The statement specifically highlighted concerns related to the National Testing Agency (NTA), alleging that recurring controversies have weakened trust in the country's examination process. It also linked these issues to broader debates around centralisation and educational governance.

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NEET exam issues

A major focus of the forum's statement was the controversy surrounding NEET and allegations of paper leaks. The organisation said repeated reports of irregularities have raised questions about the reliability of high-stakes entrance examinations and left many students worried about their future.

According to JFME, concerns over examination security are not limited to NEET alone. The group alleged that similar issues have surfaced in other national examinations, including JEE Main, CUET and UGC-NET, fuelling demands for greater accountability and transparency in the conduct of public exams.

CBSE evaluation process draws questions

The forum also criticised the On-Screen Marking (OSM) system used by CBSE for evaluating Class 12 answer sheets this year. It claimed that the digital evaluation process led to widespread dissatisfaction among students, many of whom applied for re-evaluation after the declaration of results.

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JFME argued that some students may still be unable to access their answer sheets and seek re-evaluation. The group also questioned the process through which the private vendor associated with the evaluation system was selected.

Education bodies demand policy changes

In its statement, the forum called for a series of reforms aimed at restoring confidence in the examination system. Among its key demands was a review of the role of the NTA and the broader framework governing centralised entrance examinations.

The group also advocated for greater autonomy for universities and state institutions in admissions and assessment processes. It argued that school examination performance should carry more weight in undergraduate admissions instead of relying heavily on a single national entrance test.

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Independent judicial probe

Seeking accountability, JFME urged the Supreme Court to order an independent and time-bound judicial inquiry into alleged paper leak networks and examination-related irregularities. The forum said a comprehensive investigation was necessary to address concerns surrounding examination management and restore public trust.

The statement also called for physical re-evaluation of CBSE Class 12 answer sheets without charging students any fee. Additionally, it sought relief measures for students who have already secured opportunities through competitive entrance examinations.

Emphasising its support for students and parents, the forum said urgent steps were needed to protect the interests of young learners and strengthen the credibility of India's education system.