The National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3 after allegations of a massive question paper leak surfaced across multiple states. More than 22 lakh medical aspirants will now have to appear for the examination again, with fresh dates and revised admit cards to be announced separately by the agency.
The controversy erupted after reports claimed that a “guess paper” circulated before the examination allegedly matched nearly 120 questions from the Chemistry section and several questions from Biology in the actual NEET UG 2026 paper. Investigators suspect the material was distributed through organised networks operating in coaching hubs, especially in Sikar, Rajasthan, nearly a month before the examination.
According to investigation agencies, the leaked paper was allegedly sold to students for amounts reaching ₹7.3 lakh even hours before the examination. The Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) launched raids and questioned multiple suspects as the probe widened across Rajasthan, Bihar, and Maharashtra.
In a major breakthrough, the alleged mastermind of the racket, Manish Yadav, was detained in Jaipur. Officials believe he played a key role in coordinating the distribution of leaked examination material. Another accused, Shubham Khairnar, was also taken into custody in Nashik as authorities intensified the nationwide investigation.
The cancellation has triggered widespread frustration among students and parents. Many candidates expressed concern over the uncertainty surrounding the re-examination and the mental pressure caused by the sudden decision.
Speaking to NDTV, a NEET aspirant named Sudhanshu from Jharkhand said he had been preparing in Patna for the last two years and expected to score over 650 marks in his first attempt. “We are being forced to think again. It is not necessary that we will score the same marks next time as well,” he said, adding that students are now facing severe stress and anxiety.
Follow TJP Whatsapp ChannelThe NEET UG exam serves as the gateway for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, and other undergraduate medical courses across India. The Ministry of Education and central agencies are expected to conduct a detailed investigation into the alleged paper leak network and security lapses surrounding the examination process.
