Mandamus Issued to Modify NEET-2026 Brochure, Enabling Reservation for Candidates in Uttar Pradesh
In a significant development, the Allahabad High Court has issued a mandamus directing the rectification of the NEET-2026 counseling brochure to incorporate a 1% horizontal reservation for candidates holding NCC 'B' certificates with a 'B' grade in the State of Uttar Pradesh. This decision comes in response to a writ petition filed by Saksham Srivastava, a candidate seeking admission through NEET-UG 2026.
The case was presided over by Justices Arindam Sinha and Satya Veer Singh, who heard arguments from the petitioner’s counsel, Mr. Pranab Kumar Ganguli. Mr. Ganguli highlighted that similar reservations had been successfully implemented in other states, such as Karnataka and Telangana, which offer horizontal reservations and grace marks respectively for NCC certificate holders.
The court noted that the existing circular dated 2nd February 2007, which requires candidates to possess an NCC 'C' certificate to avail reservation, was deemed unworkable. This is because the 'C' certificate can only be obtained post-graduation, thus denying undergraduate aspirants the opportunity to benefit from the reservation.
The State's counsel, Mr. Sharad Chandra Upadhyay, argued against the applicability of other states' policies in Uttar Pradesh due to the existing circular. However, the court found the reservation policy illusory and unimplementable, thus necessitating a change.
In its judgment, the court added the National Testing Agency (NTA) as a party, directing it to notify eligible candidates regarding the reservation and invite them to upload their NCC 'B' certificates before the rescheduled NEET-UG test on June 21, 2026.
This decision marks a pivotal shift in the reservation policy, aligning with the needs of eligible candidates and ensuring fair access to educational opportunities. The directive is expected to benefit numerous aspirants in Uttar Pradesh, fostering inclusivity and recognizing the achievements of NCC cadets.
Bottom Line:
Horizontal reservation for NCC B certificate holders with B grade in NEET-UG counseling - Mandamus issued to rectify brochure for NEET-2026 to provide 1% reservation in the State of Uttar Pradesh, as existing provision under circular dated 2nd February, 2007 was deemed unworkable.
Statutory provision(s): Circular dated 2nd February 2007, Writ of Mandamus, National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET)
Saksham Srivastava v. State of U.P., (Allahabad)(DB) : Law Finder Doc id # 2908130
