India Cancels NEET-UG 2026 Exam Amid Massive Paper Leak Scandal
The National Testing Agency cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 medical entrance exam following a massive paper leak involving over 120 questions, affecting 2.2 million aspirants. Originating in Rajasthan, the scandal prompted a Central Bureau of Investigation probe and widespread student protests demanding accountability. This unprecedented cancellation marks a severe breach in India’s education system, causing significant distress to candidates. The government announced a free re-test with existing registrations valid, aiming to restore integrity while addressing systemic failures and alleged organized racketeering that compromised the national examination process.
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SFI Demands Clarity on Attendance Figures for NEET-UG Retest
The Students' Federation of India (SFI) has demanded that the National Testing Agency (NTA) release the exact attendance figures for the NEET-UG re-examination held on June 21, 2026. The NTA has only stated that 'more than 20 lakh aspirants' appeared, while 22 lakh candidates took the original May 3 exam, raising concerns about a potential two-lakh drop in participation. The SFI alleged that the cancellation of the first exam due to an alleged paper leak caused significant distress, claiming around 20 students took the extreme step as a result. In response, the SFI has launched a 'NEET Complaint Cell' to assist affected students and will pursue valid complaints through legal and political channels.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.NTA Dismisses Fake Video Claiming NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak, Says Re-exam Conducted Successfully
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has dismissed as fake a video circulating on social media that claimed the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination paper was leaked. In a statement, the NTA said the re-exam was held successfully on June 21, 2026, under comprehensive security and surveillance. The agency urged students, parents, and the public to rely only on official channels and not amplify the fabricated material. It noted that manufacturing and deliberately circulating such misinformation is a serious offense and that it is taking action with support from I4C and law enforcement. The re-exam, held after the original test was cancelled due to paper leaks, saw over 20 lakh candidates appear across 5,440 centers in India and 14 abroad. The NTA mobilized around 7 lakh officials and completed the exercise in a record 37 days, with the Union Education Minister reviewing arrangements.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.NTA Dismisses Fake Video Claiming NEET Paper Leak, Confirms Successful Re-Exam
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has dismissed as fake a social media video falsely claiming that the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination paper was leaked. The re-exam was held successfully on June 21, 2026, with over 20 lakh medical aspirants appearing across 5,440 centers in India and 14 abroad, after the original test was cancelled due to a prior paper leak. The NTA stated the exam was conducted under comprehensive security and surveillance, with around 7 lakh officials mobilized. The agency warned that spreading such misinformation is a serious offense and, with support from I4C and law enforcement, is taking action against those responsible. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan reviewed arrangements. The NTA also emphasized special provisions for over 10,000 Persons with Disabilities and appealed for calm and reliance on official channels.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.NEET re-test held across 97 centres amid tight security after paper leak allegations
Thousands of students across India appeared for the NEET re-examination on June 21, 2026, after the original May 3 test was cancelled over alleged question paper leaks. The National Testing Agency conducted the exam across 5,440 centres in 551 cities nationwide, with Delhi hosting 97 centres under heightened security. Candidates reported double frisking, including checks on hair, and described the new paper as tougher than the original, particularly the physics section. Students expressed fatigue and anxiety over the disruption, with some stating the cancellation affected their preparation momentum. Parents noted the re-test would delay admissions and potentially impact alternative career plans. The exam was held with elaborate security to prevent further breaches.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Rahul Gandhi Urges Government to Ensure No Glitches in NEET-UG Re-exam
Ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination on June 21, 2026, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi appealed to the Prime Minister and the government to ensure the test is conducted without any glitches or irregularities. In a video posted on X, he wished students well and expressed solidarity, saying they have endured enough stress. The re-examination comes after the original test was cancelled due to allegations of a paper leak that caused nationwide outrage. Over 22.79 lakh medical aspirants are scheduled to appear at 551 centers in India and 14 abroad. Authorities have tightened security and conducted a mock drill to ensure smooth conduct.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.NEET-UG 2026 paper leak and structural inefficiencies explained by The Hindu
The National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 examination on May 12 after evidence of a paper leak surfaced, marking the first full-scale cancellation and retest ordered by the agency. The original exam was held on May 3, while a re-examination is scheduled for June 21. The incident sparked widespread student protests, political and legal battles, and strong criticism from the Supreme Court, which on May 25 blamed the NTA for failing to learn from a similar security breach in 2024. Experts cite the NTA's lax operational capacity, porous cybersecurity, and poor crisis communication as underlying structural inefficiencies. The article is part of a collection of 13 explainers, expert opinions, and webinars discussing the leak, the NTA's zero-error policy failure, the potential for decentralizing NEET-UG, and the need for a revamp of the testing agency. It also covers proposals for computer-based testing (CBT) format and broader reforms.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.NTA holds nationwide mock drill on June 20 ahead of NEET-UG re-exam
On June 20, 2026, the National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted a nationwide mock drill across India in preparation for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21. The drill aims to ensure the smooth, secure, and fair conduct of the exam, which will see over 22.79 lakh candidates appearing. More than two lakh personnel have been deployed to manage logistics and security. The article reports this as a readiness measure by the NTA, highlighting the scale of the operation and the agency's focus on integrity and order during the high-stakes medical entrance test.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.NTA Urges NEET-UG Candidates to Stay Calm and Ignore Rumors Ahead of Re-exam
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has urged NEET-UG candidates to remain calm and ignore rumors ahead of the re-examination scheduled for June 21, 2026. In a message on X, the NTA warned against malpractice, stating that any attempt will be dealt with firmly. The agency emphasized that extensive arrangements have been made for a safe, secure, and fair exam in coordination with ministries, state governments, and security agencies. The original exam on May 3 was cancelled due to a paper leak, which is being investigated by the CBI. The NTA also highlighted the availability of mental health support via the MANAS helpline (14416) and appealed to parents and teachers to avoid sharing unverified information.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Indian Parliamentary Panel to Question Officials on NEET Re-exam
Top officials from India's Health and Education Ministries, the National Testing Agency (NTA), and the National Medical Commission (NMC) are scheduled to appear before a parliamentary panel on June 10, 2026, to discuss the upcoming NEET-UG re-examination. This marks the third parliamentary committee to summon these officials following the cancellation of the May 3 exam due to a reported paper leak. The panel, focusing on the Health Ministry's regulatory institutions, will question the secretaries and senior officers on the conduct of the NEET exam under the NMC Act. The re-exam is set for June 21 in pen-paper format. The CBI Director has also briefed a separate panel on the investigation into the leak. The controversy has led to student protests and suicides, raising concerns about the re-examination process.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.National Testing Agency announces NEET-UG re-exam on June 21 after cancellation over irregularities
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced that the NEET-UG medical entrance exam, which was cancelled on May 12, 2026 following allegations of irregularities and a paper leak, will be re-conducted on June 21, 2026. The original exam was held on May 3. The cancellation came after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was tasked with a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged irregularities. The announcement followed a high-level meeting at the residence of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on May 14. Authorities, including Bihar Police, have warned aspirants and parents against rumors and fraudulent calls related to the retest. The article also references expert calls for reforms in the exam process and exemption of state-government seats.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.NTA releases NEET-UG 2026 re-exam city intimation slip for June 21; admit card to be issued later
The National Testing Agency (NTA) released the exam city intimation slip for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination on June 7, 2026. The re-exam is scheduled for June 21, 2026, and will be conducted in pen-and-paper mode from 2 pm to 5:15 pm across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad. Candidates can check their allotted city by logging in with their application number and password. The NTA clarified that this is not the admit card, which will be issued later. The original NEET-UG exam, held on May 3, 2026, was cancelled on May 12 due to allegations of a paper leak. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently investigating the matter. The NTA also dismissed claims of a re-exam paper leak or sale and warned of legal action against such rumors.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.NTA Dismisses NEET-UG 2026 Re-exam Paper Leak Claims, Warns of Action
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has dismissed as false and fraudulent social media claims about a leak or sale of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination question paper. In a statement on X, the agency warned that such messages are circulated by organized cheating rackets aiming to exploit student anxiety and extort money by selling fake papers. The NTA stated the integrity of the examination process remains intact and that it is filing complaints with law enforcement and cyber-crime authorities. The NEET-UG retest is scheduled for June 21, following the cancellation of the May 3 exam due to a paper leak, which is currently under CBI investigation. Candidates and parents are advised to rely only on official NTA communications.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Supreme Court Refuses Computer-Based Test for NEET-UG 2026 Re-Exam
The Supreme Court of India has refused to order the National Testing Agency (NTA) to conduct the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination in a computer-based test (CBT) format. The court observed that changing the examination mode at this stage would create practical difficulties. The decision was published on June 1, 2026, and affects the re-test for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for undergraduate medical courses. The ruling maintains the existing pen-and-paper format for the re-examination.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Supreme Court Rejects Plea for Computer-Based NEET-UG Retest
On June 1, 2026, the Supreme Court of India refused to accept a plea seeking the conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 re-test in computer-based test (CBT) mode, stating that the National Testing Agency (NTA) is already facing too many problems. The bench of Justices P.S. Narasimha and Aravind Kumar posted the plea for hearing on July 27. The NTA had cancelled the May 3 NEET-UG exam on May 12 amid allegations of a paper leak. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is investigating the matter, and a retest is scheduled for June 21 in pen-and-paper mode. The court noted that similar pleas were previously dismissed. The NTA has stated in an affidavit that it plans to conduct NEET-UG in CBT mode from next year. The court had earlier observed that the real problem would not stop until 'actual accountability arises,' and the government assured that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was personally supervising the situation.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Supreme Court declines hearing fresh plea seeking CBT format for June 21 NEET-UG re-test
The Supreme Court of India declined to hear a fresh petition demanding that the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, scheduled for June 21, be conducted in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format instead of the traditional pen-and-paper mode. The plea, filed by RJD MP Sudhakar Singh, Anubhav Garg, IMA spokesperson Dr. Dhruv Chauhan, and Harisharan Devgan, argued that a digital examination would reduce risks associated with printing and transporting physical question papers. The original NEET-UG 2026 exam, held on May 3, was cancelled nationwide on May 12 after a paper leak was alleged, prompting a CBI investigation. A separate petition from FAIMA and UDF seeks a comprehensive overhaul of the National Testing Agency (NTA), citing systemic failure. The Supreme Court has sought responses from the Centre, NTA, and CBI, with the next hearing scheduled.
"site:indianexpress.com" - Google NewsCBI and Government Officials Brief Parliamentary Panel on NEET Paper Leak Investigation and Retest Security
On May 29, 2026, CBI Director Praveen Sood and top officials from the Union Education Ministry, National Testing Agency (NTA), and National Medical Commission (NMC) briefed a parliamentary panel on the NEET-UG paper leak investigation. The CBI director updated the committee on arrests made and steps to apprehend remaining accused. Officials outlined measures to ensure transparency and prevent malpractice in the June 21 retest. The panel urged that the medical seat matrix remain undisturbed and that counselling proceed on schedule. The NEET-UG exam, originally held on May 3, was cancelled on May 12 due to leak allegations, with the CBI investigating. The committee was convened following a government assurance to Parliament in November 2024 regarding NTA exam conduct.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Parliamentary panel summons Education Ministry, NTA, CBI officials over exam conduct
A parliamentary committee on government assurances has summoned senior officials from the Union Education Ministry, the National Testing Agency (NTA), and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to appear on May 29, 2026, regarding the conduct of examinations by the NTA. The summons relates to an assurance given in the Rajya Sabha in November 2024 about examination integrity. The meeting follows the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2026 medical entrance exam on May 12 due to a paper leak, with a retest scheduled for June 21. The CBI is investigating the leak and has filed five charge sheets against 45 accused as of November 2024. Additionally, the panel will hear about a 'Medical College Scam' involving alleged irregularities such as dummy faculty and fake inspections, also under CBI investigation.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Delhi Court Sends Two NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak Accused to 14-Day Judicial Custody
A Delhi court on May 27, 2026, remanded alleged kingpin Prahlad Vithalrao Kulkarni and another accused, Shivraj Raghunath, to 14-day judicial custody until June 10 in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case. The two were produced after their police custody ended. The CBI has arrested 13 individuals so far, including a chemistry lecturer who had access to question papers through the National Testing Agency (NTA). The NTA cancelled the May 3 NEET-UG exam due to leak allegations and has scheduled a re-examination for June 21. Other arrested individuals include a biology lecturer from the NTA paper-setting committee, a doctor, a physics teacher, and several others from various cities.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.NEET-UG 2026 Cancelled Amid Paper Leak Scandal; CBI Probe and Re-exam Scheduled
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 medical entrance examination following serious allegations of a widespread paper leak. The exam, originally held on May 3, 2026, for over 22 lakh candidates, was voided on May 12 after investigators discovered significant overlaps between a circulated 'guess paper' and the actual test questions. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has taken over the case, registering an FIR under the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024. So far, seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the leak across Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Delhi. The NTA has announced that a re-examination will be conducted on June 21, 2026, with existing candidature details remaining valid and fees refunded. This incident has sparked intense scrutiny of the NTA's credibility and renewed calls for structural reforms, including a potential shift to computer-based testing to prevent future malpractice. Students and parents have expressed concern over the mental stress and disruption caused by the cancellation.
India Today | Latest StoriesNEET-UG Cancellation: The Human Cost of Exam Paper Leaks in India
This article highlights the devastating impact of examination paper leaks on Indian students, centered on the recent cancellation of the 2026 NEET-UG medical entrance exam by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Following reports of a leak, the cancellation triggered immediate distress, resulting in at least three reported suicides among aspirants in Delhi, Goa, and Uttar Pradesh. The author draws parallels to a personal experience during the 2022 BPSC exam leak, illustrating the profound anxiety and shattered hopes faced by millions of candidates. Despite previous allegations of irregularities in 2024 and 2025, critics argue that the NTA failed to implement necessary security recommendations, such as those from the K Radhakrishnan Committee. The piece notes that paper leaks have become commonplace across various state and national exams, affecting nearly 17 million aspirants between 2017 and 2024. Students now face renewed uncertainty regarding re-tests, with fears that subsequent exams may be arbitrarily more difficult. The narrative underscores a deep erosion of trust in educational institutions and the severe psychological toll exerted on families and individuals whose careers and financial stability hinge on these high-stakes examinations.
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