Tamil Nadu Assembly Passes Anti-NEET Resolution (Img: X)
New Delhi: The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly on Tuesday passed a resolution opposing the continuation of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) for undergraduate medical admissions, arguing that the exam affects students from rural, poor and socially disadvantaged backgrounds.
The resolution was moved by state Health Minister K.G. Arunraj and received support from the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government, Congress, DMK, AIADMK and other parties. The lone BJP MLA staged a walkout during the discussion.
The Tamil Nadu government urged the Centre to abolish NEET and allow medical admissions in the state based on Class 12 board examination marks.
While presenting the resolution, Arunraj claimed that NEET has shifted students’ focus from regular school studies towards coaching centres, many of which charge high fees.
He argued that the system creates difficulties for students from rural areas, Tamil-medium backgrounds and economically weaker sections who cannot afford expensive coaching.
The resolution also highlighted concerns over alleged irregularities and question paper leaks in the NEET examination system.
The Tamil Nadu government referred to the NEET-UG controversy, including the cancellation and re-conduct of the exam, saying such incidents have affected students’ confidence and increased stress.
The resolution also mentioned cases of student suicides linked to examination pressure while demanding major changes in the medical admission system.
Tamil Nadu has consistently opposed NEET, with successive governments arguing that a single national-level entrance exam impacts the state’s education model and social justice policies.
The state had earlier passed a bill seeking exemption from NEET for medical admissions, but the proposal has remained pending for approval.
The resolution stated that abolishing NEET would require amendments to laws including the National Medical Commission Act, 2019, and other related medical education laws.
NEET was introduced as a common medical entrance examination to replace multiple admission systems across states. Supporters argue that it provides a uniform selection process, while critics say it benefits students who can afford costly coaching.
