In a massive setback for over 22 lakh medical aspirants, the National Testing Agency (NTA) on Tuesday cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3 following allegations of a large-scale question paper leak and examination malpractice. The agency announced that a fresh examination would be conducted on revised dates, which will be notified separately along with new admit cards.
The cancellation came after investigations by central agencies and law enforcement authorities indicated that the integrity of the examination process may have been compromised. The Government of India has also ordered a CBI probe into the matter.
The controversy intensified after reports emerged that a “guess paper” circulating in Rajasthan allegedly matched more than 100 questions from the actual NEET UG 2026 paper, especially in Chemistry and Biology sections. Investigators suspect the material had reached several coaching hubs, including Sikar in Rajasthan, weeks before the examination and was reportedly sold for huge sums of money.
Rajasthan Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG) has detained several individuals, including alleged mastermind Manish Yadav in Jaipur, as the investigation expanded into multiple states. Officials are examining possible links to organised cheating networks and former examination officials.
The sudden cancellation has triggered anxiety and frustration among students who had spent years preparing for the country’s biggest medical entrance examination. Speaking to NDTV, aspirant Sudhanshu from Jharkhand said he was expecting over 650 marks in his first attempt but now fears he may not perform similarly in the re-exam due to mental pressure and uncertainty surrounding the process.
Notably, the NTA had dismissed paper leak rumours before the examination and assured students that strict security protocols were in place.
The agency has clarified that candidates will not have to register again for the re-test, as previous application details will remain valid.