NEET-UG 2026 Cancelled Over Paper Leak Allegations
NEET-UG 2026 Cancelled Over Paper Leak Allegations
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026, India’s largest medical entrance examination, has been officially cancelled by the National Testing Agency (NTA) after serious allegations of a nationwide paper leak surfaced. The decision has affected nearly 23 lakh medical aspirants across the country and triggered massive outrage among students, parents, coaching institutes, and political leaders.
Why Was NEET-UG 2026 Cancelled?
According to the NTA and investigating agencies, several questions from the actual NEET-UG 2026 examination were allegedly circulated before the exam through so-called “guess papers” and WhatsApp groups. Investigators reportedly found major similarities between leaked material and the real examination paper.
The controversy first emerged in Rajasthan’s Sikar district, where police and Special Operations Group (SOG) officials began probing suspicious “guess papers” sold to candidates before the exam. Later investigations expanded to Maharashtra, Uttarakhand, and other states.
Following mounting evidence, the Government of India approved the cancellation of the exam conducted on 3 May 2026. The NTA stated that maintaining the credibility and fairness of the examination system was the top priority.
CBI Probe Ordered
The Central Government has now handed over the entire case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Officials say a large “paper leak mafia” may be involved in selling leaked papers for amounts ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹25 lakh.
So far, several people have reportedly been arrested, including students, coaching center operators, and suspected middlemen. Investigators are examining digital evidence, WhatsApp chats, and financial transactions linked to the alleged leak network.
Fresh Exam To Be Conducted
The NTA has confirmed that NEET-UG 2026 will be conducted again on fresh dates, which will be announced soon through official channels. Candidates will not need to register again or pay additional fees. Existing application forms and exam city preferences will remain valid.
Students Protest Across India
The cancellation has led to protests in Delhi and several other cities. Many students demanded strict punishment for those involved and called for reforms in the examination system. Several organizations and medical associations have also approached the Supreme Court seeking judicial monitoring of the re-examination process and reforms in the NTA.
Popular educator Khan Sir also criticized the NTA, saying repeated exam irregularities were destroying students’ trust and mental peace.
Historic Decision
This is reportedly the first time since the NTA took over NEET-UG in 2019 that the entire examination has been cancelled nationwide. Earlier controversies in 2024 had already raised questions over the transparency and security of India’s competitive examination system.