The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) was re-administered across 12 examination centres in Dakshina Kannada district on Sunday, with officials reporting a smooth process just two months after the initial test. Favorable weather conditions eased movement and waiting arrangements for parents, candidates, and staff.
Enhanced security and strict protocols
Authorities implemented heightened security and stricter entry protocols to ensure a foolproof examination. Candidates were allowed entry only after verification of NEET admit cards, while officials monitored gates and corridors to regulate movement. Invigilators and staff oversaw candidate flow and compliance at all centres. A total of 5,570 candidates registered in the district.
Emotional and financial burden on families
Several parents, especially those traveling from outside the district, arrived a day in advance to avoid last-minute disruptions and support their children. Many described the retest as an added emotional and financial burden after candidates had to prepare again following allegations of a paper leak linked to the May examination.
A candidate whose family is from Nanjangud in Mysuru and who studies at a private college in Dakshina Kannada said the second round of preparation was difficult but expressed confidence. “I prepared well and appeared for the first NEET exam. I had high hopes of getting a good ranking, but it was destroyed after the alleged paper leak. I prepared again and today I am here to reappear. I am confident of doing well,” the candidate said.
At the govt PU College for Women in Balmatta, a parent from Hassan said their son had mentally moved on after the first test and had nearly put away preparation materials. “For his bad luck, he is now reappearing again. It was not easy to re-prepare,” the parent said, adding that the family had reached the city a day early.
Changes in the retest
Parents and candidates pointed to several changes in the retest. Examination centres were reassigned and candidates did not receive the same venues as before, while roll numbers were changed. Candidates were also granted an extra 15 minutes, a move parents linked to complaints raised after the earlier exam.
MA Khan, vice-chancellor of Karnatak University, Dharwad, whose daughter appeared at a centre in Panambur, also noted the changes in centres and roll numbers and confirmed the additional 15 minutes.
