Lok Sabha MPs across party lines have questioned the purpose of NEET and called on the government to abandon the ‘One Nation, One Exam’ approach. The debate took place during the discussion on the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026.
DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran Leads the Charge Against NEET
DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran was clear in his opposition. “NEET is not necessary. Do not go for ‘One India, One Exam’,” he exhorted in the Lok Sabha. According to National Herald India, Maran argued that the national eligibility test for admission to medical colleges disadvantages first-generation students aspiring to become doctors and those who study in their native languages.
He pointed out that not everyone can afford the exorbitant coaching required to crack NEET. “Has any improvement in healthcare in the country happened because of NEET? What purpose does it continue to serve?” asked the DMK MP.
Objection to Finance Minister’s Remark on Paper Leak
Maran also objected to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s remark that the NEET paper leak was, in a sense, beneficial as students got more time to prepare for the exam. The MP found this comment inappropriate given the stress and anxiety caused by such leaks.
The debate highlighted growing concerns among lawmakers about the centralised exam system. MPs across party lines questioned whether NEET has actually improved healthcare standards or if it has only added to student stress, paper leaks, and financial burden.
Our Take: A Valid Question That Needs an Answer
The MPs have raised a fair point. If NEET has not led to better healthcare or reduced inequality in medical education, then its purpose needs to be re-evaluated. The argument that first-generation students and those studying in regional languages are at a disadvantage is hard to ignore. The government should listen to these concerns seriously rather than pushing ahead with a ‘One Nation, One Exam’ model that may not work for everyone.
