NEET Merit List Includes Candidates with -23 Marks; What is the Reason?

A total of 10 candidates have secured negative marks in the merit list released by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Puducherry. This group includes candidates who scored -1, -3, -6, -7, -9, -11, -14, -15, -16, and -23.

NEET UG Merit List: State-wise merit lists for NEET UG have been released across various regions. Following these releases, the Puducherry merit list has drawn attention because it includes the names of candidates who obtained negative marks in the exam. This has raised questions among many students regarding why these candidates appear on the list despite their negative scores and whether they are eligible for a medical seat.

Candidates with -23 Marks on the Merit List

According to the merit list released by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Puducherry, 10 candidates have negative scores. These include candidates with marks of -1, -3, -6, -7, -9, -11, -14, -15, -16, and -23. These candidates have been assigned ranks between 4707 and 4716. Meanwhile, Krishanth Abhinav M tops the Puducherry merit list with a score of 670 and an All India Rank of 553. Praveen A holds the second spot with 646 marks and a rank of 1721. Ramnishwar A is in third place, having secured 646 marks and a rank of 1756.

Why Are Names Included Despite Negative Marking?

The inclusion of a name in the merit list does not guarantee that all candidates will secure an MBBS or BDS seat. The state merit list includes all candidates who applied through the prescribed process and are eligible for the respective state’s counseling. Consequently, a candidate’s name may appear on the merit list even if they have secured negative marks. However, seat allotment will be based on the candidate’s NEET score, rank, category, available seats, and the counseling process. Therefore, merely having one’s name on the merit list does not guarantee admission to an MBBS or BDS college.

By when can objections regarding the merit list be raised?

Along with releasing the merit list, the Department of Health and Family Welfare has provided candidates with an opportunity to raise objections. Candidates who have any objections regarding the merit list can submit their grievances via email by August 5.

How ​​to check the NEET UG 2026 merit list

First, visit the official website of the Puducherry Health Department at health.py.gov.in.
Click on the NEET UG 2026 merit list link on the home page.
The merit list PDF will then open on the screen.
Search for your name or roll number to view your rank.

What is the next step?

Registration for NEET UG counseling will begin on August 5 and continue until August 12. Choice filling will take place from August 6 to August 13. The seat allotment result for the first round will be released on August 17, and selected candidates will be able to report to their respective institutes between August 18 and August 22.