It is true that examinations involve certain strict rules and regulations, but NEET 2017 overdid themselves in their attempts to curtail cheating. It is true that with increasing technology, students find themselves with a variety of methods to cheat. Despite preventive measures, candidates find new and innovative ways to cheat their exams. However, do the steps taken by the Board really have a righteous justification or is it just an excuse to hide the Board’s immense paranoia?

In an attempt to cut down cheating, the NEET exam authorities put candidates who had already gone through a long, stressful period of cramming for the exams, in a pickle. Along with the pre-existing exam jitters, candidates had to undergo a mental stress of keeping up with the dress code. No matter what excuse is given, the uptight demeanor of the exams can never be justified.

Asking a girl to remove her top innerwear just for the sake of security is inexcusable. The Board should treat students as students, and not like criminals. If this kind of security measures were put into force all across the country, actual terrorism can be stopped. Instead of narrowing the candidates before one of the significant exams of their lives, the Board could have come up with some other subtle yet strong actions. As a suggestion, more invigilators could have been set up for each hall. If a certain type of dress code is to be expected, it can be made clear days before the exam. There is no point in troubling already nervous candidates just a few minutes before their exam.

In the end, the Board has to realize who they are dealing with and make sure they solve their issues hassle-free. Only confident and positive atmospheres can bring the best out of examinees. Who knows, the ones you troubled today for the sake of a dress code can possibly deny your access to their hospitals tomorrow.

Written by Ramya Ashok Kumar