NEET-UG 2026 Cancelled; Fresh Exam to Be Conducted

Synopsis: NEET-UG 2026 is cancelled following alleged paper leaks and exam irregularities, prompting a CBI probe and triggering uncertainty among over 22 lakh medical aspirants nationwide.

National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 examination following allegations of a major paper leak and widespread irregularities, triggering uncertainty among over 22 lakh medical aspirants across the country. The examination, conducted on May 3, will now be reconducted, with fresh dates expected to be announced soon.

The controversy intensified after investigators found that a so-called “guess paper” circulating before the examination reportedly matched a significant portion of the actual question paper. Initial investigations in Rajasthan and Uttarakhand uncovered suspected malpractice networks, leading authorities to widen the probe into multiple states. Several individuals, including former officials and intermediaries, have reportedly been detained for questioning.

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The cancellation marks another major setback for the NTA, which had earlier denied rumours of any paper leak and assured students that strict security measures were in place to protect the integrity of the examination. In the days leading up to NEET-UG 2026, the agency publicly stated that all confidential materials had been securely transported and warned students against believing misinformation circulating on social media platforms.

Following the latest developments, the matter has reportedly been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a detailed inquiry. Political parties, student organisations, and education activists have strongly criticised the handling of the examination process and demanded accountability from the authorities. Student groups have also staged protests in several locations, expressing concerns over stress, uncertainty, and the future of aspirants preparing for medical admissions.

The incident has once again brought India’s examination system under scrutiny, especially after multiple competitive exams in recent years faced allegations of leaks, technical failures, or procedural lapses. Experts believe the repeated controversies could further weaken public confidence in large-scale national examinations unless stronger security and monitoring mechanisms are introduced.