AIPSN demands scrapping of NTA, backs student protests for exam reforms
AIPSN demands scrapping of NTA, backs student protests for exam reforms
New Delhi, July 27,
All India People’s Science Network (AIPSN), a collective of 40 organisations and movements across 25 states, on Monday demanded that the National Testing Agency (NTA) be scrapped, alleging that the country’s centralized examination system has failed to ensure fairness, transparency and accountability.
In a solidarity statement issued in support of the ongoing student and youth protests over examination-related issues, the network said it stood firmly with the agitating students seeking justice and accountability in higher education. It also congratulated the protesters on securing the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and welcomed their demand for comprehensive examination reforms.
The organisation expressed concern over the composition of the newly announced High-Powered Task Force on Examination Reform, claiming it did not include any educationists.
According to AIPSN, the panel’s focus appeared to be limited to security, surveillance and cyber-intelligence instead of addressing broader concerns related to the content, format and accessibility of entrance examinations.
AIPSN extended support to demands for the withdrawal of cases registered against protesters, compensation to families of students who allegedly died by suicide in connection with examination-related issues, and a judicial inquiry into alleged police excesses during demonstrations.
Criticising the National Education Policy (NEP), the NTA and the proposed VBSA Bill replacing the University Grants Commission (UGC), the network alleged that centralized, single-stage multiple-choice examinations promote the coaching industry, disadvantage students from underprivileged backgrounds and undermine equitable access to higher education.
The organisation alleged that the NTA lacks academic autonomy and accountability, and claimed that outsourcing examination conduct to private agencies has contributed to recurring irregularities, including paper leaks. It called for the NTA to be abolished and replaced with a more decentralised admission system.
AIPSN urged state governments to reclaim a greater constitutional role in education by developing state-centred curricula and admission procedures based on regional needs, school board performance and principles of social justice. It reaffirmed its solidarity with students and families affected by examination-related controversies and pledged continued support for reforms aimed at creating a fair and equitable education system.
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