State board students welcome SC order on Neet ordinance

CHENNAI: The Supreme Court’s refusal to stay the Central Government’s National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Neet) ordinance on Thursday, was welcomed by students from the state board and educationists alike. Thanks to the Central government, which had passed an ordinance demanding that the state governments continue with their own mode of admission for the academic year 2016-17, state board students now heave a sigh of relief.

“We had demanded the ordinance and are grateful that it was brought about. Though we do not completely oppose the Common Entrance Exam (CET), we hope that a balance would be struck between boards, before going ahead with holding Neet,” said G.R. Ravindranath of Doctors’ Association for Social Equality. “We welcome the Supreme Court’s refusal to stay the order,” he added.

The ordinance deferred by a year the Supreme Court’s order to conduct Neet from 2016. The Central government had initially accepted the court’s order, but later partially reversed it through the ordinance. “We welcome the ordinance. However, it is essential to see to it that the standards are increased, however, why can’t it be done from a lower level,” said V.  Kanagasabai, former director of Medical Education.  

State board students are thankful to the Central government for exempting them from appearing for Neet this year. “It would be unfair if we are forced to take the CET this year. Though the Supreme Court is trying to create equality among all states, it should grant us some time,” said Ashwin Anto, a student. “When I initially heard about Neet, I was terribly scared as it was a totally new concept. I am extremely grateful that the Supreme Court refused to stay the ordinance, said C. Indumathy from Salem.