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NEET PG Cut Off Row: Supreme Court to Hear Pleas on April 28

Petitions challenge sharp reduction in qualifying percentile for NEET PG 2025–26. Debate centres on merit, vacant seats, and quality of medical education.

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court of India is set to hear a batch of petitions on April 28, 2026, challenging the reduction in qualifying percentile for NEET PG 2025-26. The case has gained significant attention among medical aspirants as it directly impacts admission criteria for postgraduate medical courses across the country.

The controversy stems from the decision to lower the NEET PG cut-off percentile drastically, in some categories even to zero or below-zero marks, to address the issue of vacant seats in medical colleges. While the move increased the number of eligible candidates, it also raised concerns about whether such a sharp reduction could affect the quality of medical education and merit-based selection. Petitioners have argued before the court that the reduction is arbitrary and unnecessary, claiming that enough candidates had already qualified to fill available seats. They also pointed out that vacant seats are often due to high course fees and affordability issues rather than a lack of eligible students. Additionally, concerns have been raised about patient safety and academic standards as postgraduate medical training directly impacts healthcare quality. On the other hand, the Centre has defended the decision, stating that NEET PG is only a qualifying exam, and all candidates must already hold an MBBS degree. According to this view, lowering the percentile does not compromise standards but instead helps utilise available seats and expand opportunities for medical graduates.

For students, the outcome of this case is crucial. The Supreme Court’s decision could determine whether the revised cut-off policy continues or is reconsidered, directly affecting admission chances, competition levels and the overall fairness of the selection process. As the hearing approaches, aspirants are advised to stay updated as the verdict may have long-term implications for medical education and career pathways in India.

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