NEET 2016: SC asks MCI to respond to state governments' plea to hold separate exams this year

New Delhi: In a major development with regard to the National Eligibility Entrance Test (NEET), the Supreme Court on Tuesday asked Medical Council of India (MCI) to respond to state governments' plea to hold separate exams this year.

The MCI has to respond to the plea by Thursday.

The development came as the Supreme Court heard the petitions by some states and private medical colleges seeking permission to continue with separate tests for admissions in the MBBS and BDS courses.

Earlier, on Monday, the apex court had set up a three-member panel to oversee functioning of the MCI with regard to the NEET. The panel will be headed by former chief justice of India R M Lodha.

The apex court had also upheld the provisions of a Madhya Pradesh law which enables government to have 50 per cent shares in management seats in private dental colleges.

NEET schedule 

According to the schedule, the All India Pre-Medical Test (AIPMT) scheduled for May 1 was treated as first round of the NEET.

However, those who have not applied for AIPMT will be given opportunity to appear in round two on July 24.

The combined result will be declared on August 17, in order to complete the admission process by September 30 - the deadline set by the apex court in its previous orders.