NEET PG Discrepancies 2024: Candidates Allege Major Issues with Normalisation Process and Demand Official Answer Key Release

NEET PG Discrepancies 2024: The NEET PG 2024 results, released by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) on August 23, 2024, have ignited a wave of controversy and concern among candidates. Many aspirants, particularly those who appeared in the second shift of the exam on August 11, are questioning the transparency and fairness of the result preparation process. Central to their grievances is the normalisation process, which they claim has significantly skewed their ranks, leading to unexpected and disappointing outcomes.

The Discrepancy: What Went Wrong with NEET PG 2024 Results?

The crux of the controversy lies in the normalisation process used by NBEMS to calculate the final ranks. Typically, the NEET PG exam is conducted in a single shift, but this year, it was split into two shifts. This shift-based approach necessitated the use of a normalisation method to ensure fairness across different question papers. However, many candidates believe that this method was not applied correctly, resulting in discrepancies between their expected scores and the ranks they received.

One of the most vocal critics, Dr. Ayush, expressed his frustration, stating, “I was expecting a score around 480-490 based on calculations from various sources, but I received a rank of 37,000. Last year, with the same marks, my rank was 18,000-19,000. This year’s paper was more difficult, so I anticipated a rank of around 15,000. This feels like a big scam.”

Similarly, another aspirant, Niteesh, highlighted the issue of rank inflation, noting, “Based on answer keys from multiple sources, I had 115-120 correct answers out of 170 attempted questions, but my rank is 1.45 lakh. Even with increased competition, my rank should have been less than 75,000, but it has doubled.”

These discrepancies have led to widespread dissatisfaction, with many candidates demanding that NBEMS release the raw scores, normalised scores, and the official answer key to clarify the results and restore faith in the examination process.

A History of Concerns: Normalisation Process Under Scrutiny

The normalisation policy adopted by NBEMS is not new to criticism. In previous years, the method has been challenged in court, with petitioners raising concerns about its fairness and transparency. This year’s controversy only adds fuel to the fire, as candidates believe that the process has once again failed to deliver accurate and fair results.

Karishma, another affected candidate, voiced her concerns, stating, “Based on the unofficial answer key, I was expecting a rank below 35,000, but unfortunately, I received a rank three times higher than expected. I know many candidates from the second shift who scored better ranks with lower scores. I don’t believe the normalisation process was fair. We have invested more than a year into NEET PG, dealing with preponements and pattern changes, and now the results are messed up as well. We’re all stuck, and we need a fair exam.”

The Call for Transparency: Candidates Demand Answers

In response to the growing discontent, candidates are now calling for greater transparency from NBEMS. They are specifically demanding the release of the official answer key, along with detailed information on how the normalisation process was applied. These steps, they argue, are essential to restoring confidence in the NEET PG examination system and ensuring that all candidates are treated fairly.

Aaftab, another student affected by the discrepancies, said, “My rank is much lower than expected compared to the previous 2-3 years. I want NBE to release the raw score and normalised score and an official answer key.”

The demand for transparency is not without precedent. In previous years, the release of the official answer key has provided much-needed clarity and allowed candidates to verify their scores against the published results. By withholding this information, NBEMS risks further alienating candidates and undermining the credibility of the NEET PG exam.

The Larger Picture: NEET PG 2024 Exam and Its Impact

The NEET PG exam is one of the most competitive and high-stakes exams in India, determining the future of thousands of medical graduates. In 2024, the exam was conducted across 416 centers in 170 cities, with over 50,000 candidates vying for 26,168 Doctor of Medicine (MD), 13,649 Master of Surgery (MS), 922 PG Diploma, and 1,338 DNB CET seats. The stakes are incredibly high, and any perceived unfairness in the examination process can have serious consequences for the careers of these aspiring doctors.

This year’s controversy is particularly concerning given the already challenging circumstances surrounding the NEET PG 2024 exam. The exam was conducted in two shifts, a departure from the usual single-shift format, which many candidates opposed from the outset. The lack of confidence in the normalisation process only exacerbates these concerns, leaving many candidates feeling frustrated and disillusioned.

Moving Forward: What’s Next for NEET PG 2024?

As the controversy continues to unfold, all eyes are on NBEMS to see how they will respond to the growing demands for transparency. Will they release the official answer key and provide a detailed explanation of the normalisation process? Or will they stick to their current approach, risking further backlash from candidates and potential legal challenges?

For the candidates, the outcome of this controversy could have a significant impact on their future. Many are already considering retaking the exam or exploring other options if the discrepancies are not addressed. As Niteesh mentioned, “I was planning to retake the NEET exam anyway, but what’s shocking is the rank inflation compared to last year’s trends.”

In conclusion, the NEET PG 2024 discrepancies have highlighted serious concerns about the transparency and fairness of the examination process. As candidates continue to demand answers, the onus is on NBEMS to address these concerns and ensure that the NEET PG exam remains a trusted and respected gateway to postgraduate medical education in India.