The Central government has temporarily blocked access to the messaging platform Telegram across India until June 22 as a precautionary measure ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination. The decision comes amid heightened concerns over the circulation of misinformation, leaked content and unfair practices linked to the medical entrance examination.
The temporary restriction was imposed days before the re-test scheduled for candidates affected by the NEET-UG paper leak controversy. Officials said the move is intended to safeguard the integrity of the examination process and prevent the spread of unauthorised material through online channels.
The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the NEET examination, welcomed the government’s decision. According to the agency, restricting access to Telegram during the re-examination period will help curb the circulation of fake question papers, misleading claims and other content that could create confusion among students.
Authorities have been closely monitoring social media and messaging platforms following allegations that the original NEET-UG 2026 examination was compromised due to a paper leak. The controversy triggered widespread protests, legal challenges and demands for stricter safeguards to ensure fairness in the selection process.
Government officials clarified that this measure has been introduced as part of a broader strategy to strengthen examination security and maintain public confidence in the testing system.
The NEET-UG re-examination is being conducted for a limited group of candidates impacted by the earlier irregularities. Enhanced security arrangements, stricter monitoring and additional digital surveillance measures have also been put in place at examination centres across the country.
While some students and parents expressed concerns about the temporary disruption of a widely used communication platform, authorities maintained that the decision was necessary to protect the interests of lakhs of candidates appearing for the examination.
The government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent examination process. Officials said all necessary steps are being taken to prevent malpractice and uphold the credibility of one of India’s largest entrance examinations.
