Government denies NEET protestors' biometrics added to criminal database

The government has dismissed contentions that biometric information of NEET-UG protestors was unlawfully recorded in criminal databases, according to a statement from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB).

The NCRB clarified that sweeping allegations regarding violations of fundamental rights—including privacy, freedom of speech and expression—must be substantiated with concrete factual evidence of the purported infractions. The agency's statement comes amid growing concerns from civil society groups over data collection practices during the nationwide NEET-UG protests.

The controversy erupted following widespread demonstrations against the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) examination, with protestors raising questions about whether their personal information, particularly biometric data collected during police operations, was being stored inappropriately.

Government authorities have previously maintained that any data collection during law enforcement operations follows established protocols and legal frameworks. The NCRB's statement suggests that without documented proof of specific violations, claims regarding improper database enrollment cannot be substantiated.

The issue remains contentious, with advocacy groups continuing to seek clarity on data retention policies and the scope of biometric collection during public demonstrations.