In its manifesto for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections released on April 5, the Congress party has declared that if elected to power, it intends to make centrally-conducted qualifying examinations, such as the National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) and the Common University Entrance Test (CUET), optional. The manifesto emphasises the necessity of ensuring that all higher education institutions, whether central, state, or private, follow standard student admissions prerequisites.
Recognising the reservations made by various states, particularly Tamil Nadu, over exams like NEET, the Congress party intends to resolve these concerns. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had previously written to President Droupadi Murmu in August 2023 for approval of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) Exemption Bill. Although the Tamil Nadu assembly passed the bill in early 2023, the state’s governor refused to sign it. Tamil Nadu’s stance is based on the claim that NEET violates states’ rights by interfering with their ability to admit students to medical colleges.
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Apart from resolving issues with qualifying exams, the Congress manifesto delineates several other educational commitments. One key commitment is the party’s promise to review and alter the New Education Policy (NEP) while collaborating with state governments, highlighting the necessity of respecting the state’s rights while developing education policies. This approach is in response to opposition from some states to the NEP and its implementation.
Furthermore, the manifesto promises assistance to state governments in establishing Government Community Colleges in every tehsil/taluk for Class 12 graduates. These community colleges will offer a diverse range of degrees and diplomas tailored to meet the demands of industries such as hospitality, tourism, digital marketing, paramedical services, paralegal services, and basic technical skills required in the manufacturing sector.
According to reports, the Congress manifesto was drafted with a special emphasis on ‘Panch Nyay, the five ‘pillars of justice’. It also highlights Yuva Nyay, Naari Nyay, Kisaan Nyay, Shramik Nyay, and Hissedari Nyay.
India is scheduled to hold the 18th Lok Sabha elections in April-May 2024, with the current Lok Sabha term ending on June 16. On March 16, the Election Commission of India (ECI) released the calendar for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, which also feature assembly elections in Odisha, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. From April 19 to June 1, citizens across India will vote for representatives from 543 seats in the Lok Sabha elections.
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