Tamil Nadu Assembly Passes Resolution Against NEET

The Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly has passed a special resolution seeking exemption from the NEET entrance examination system, reinforcing the state’s long-standing commitment to social justice in education.

The resolution was introduced by Health Minister Arunraj, who emphasized that medical education is not merely professional training but a noble pursuit to save lives.

He argued that opportunities should be based on merit and dedication, not economic privilege, and highlighted Tamil Nadu’s history of successful social justice–based education policies.

The resolution received support from DMK, AIADMK, PMK, and other parties.

Only one BJP MLA opposed the motion and staged a walkout, making the resolution nearly unanimous.

Minister Arunraj stated that under the earlier system—admissions based on Class 12 board exam marks—students from rural areas, economically weaker families, first-generation graduates, and socially marginalized groups had significant access to medical education.

This policy contributed to Tamil Nadu’s strong public health infrastructure, which is now recognized nationally.

NEET has disproportionately benefited private coaching centers, forcing families to spend large sums on training.

Rural and government school students, as well as children of daily wage workers and farmers, face disadvantages compared to urban, affluent students.

Instead of reducing inequality, NEET has widened socio-economic gaps in education.

The government stressed that a single-day exam should not determine a student’s future, disregarding 12 years of schooling.

Minister Arunraj concluded that the permanent solution lies in moving education from the Concurrent List to the State List, giving states autonomy over admission policies.

The Assembly passed the resolution, formally demanding exemption from NEET for Tamil Nadu students.

The decision underscores the state’s determination to protect equitable access to medical education.