In a major setback for lakhs of medical aspirants, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 examination following allegations of a question paper leak. The Centre has also ordered a CBI inquiry into the matter.
The decision has affected more than 22 lakh students who appeared for the country’s biggest medical entrance exam earlier this month. Many students and parents reacted with shock and disappointment, saying months of hard work and preparation had gone into the examination.
The controversy began after investigators found that a “guess paper” allegedly circulated before the exam contained questions that closely matched the actual NEET paper. Initial investigations by Rajasthan Police reportedly pointed to the involvement of organised groups operating across several states.
Following the allegations, the government stepped in and handed over the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Officials said the decision to cancel the exam was taken to protect the fairness and credibility of the selection process.
In its statement, the NTA said fresh examination dates would be announced soon. The agency also clarified that students would not have to register again or pay any additional fees for the re-examination.
The cancellation has triggered frustration and anxiety among students, many of whom had already begun preparing for counselling and admission procedures. Student groups in several cities staged protests demanding strict action against those involved in the alleged leak.
Opposition parties also criticised the government and questioned the functioning of the NTA, pointing to repeated controversies surrounding national-level entrance examinations in recent years.
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