Decision Taken After Multi-State Investigation Inputs
According to the NTA, the move follows inputs received from investigations in states including Rajasthan and Uttarakhand, where allegations emerged regarding the circulation of question sets before the exam. Authorities reportedly found that some of these leaked or circulated questions had significant similarities with the actual NEET UG 2026 question paper.
The examination, which was taken by around 24 lakh candidates nationwide, came under scrutiny after a large question bank—containing over 400 questions—was recovered during investigations. Officials noted that more than 100 questions from biology and chemistry allegedly matched or closely resembled those in the final paper.
Action by Law Enforcement Agencies
Investigations led by the Rajasthan Police Special Operations Group reportedly uncovered coaching-related material and question compilations that had been distributed prior to the exam. Searches were carried out in several locations, including Sikar in Rajasthan and Dehradun in Uttarakhand.
In addition, coaching centres and intermediaries have come under investigation. Separate materials, including videos and test-series papers, were also reported from a coaching institute in Latur, Maharashtra, though formal investigation steps there are still developing.
Government Orders CBI Probe
Following the escalation of concerns, the Government of India has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged paper leak and related irregularities. The NTA has stated that it will fully cooperate with all investigating agencies and provide all required documents and records.
Why the Exam Was Scrapped
The NTA explained that the decision to cancel and re-conduct the exam was taken to preserve the integrity, fairness, and credibility of the national testing system. Officials noted that continuing with the existing results could compromise public trust in one of India’s largest competitive examinations.
Relief Measures for Students
To reduce inconvenience for candidates, the agency has confirmed several measures:
All registrations for NEET UG 2026 will remain valid
No fresh registration will be required
No additional examination fee will be charged
Previously paid fees will be refunded
Admit cards will be reissued for the fresh exam
Revised Schedule Soon
The NTA has stated that new examination dates and the schedule for issuing fresh admit cards will be announced soon through its official channels. Students and parents have been advised to rely only on official updates and avoid misinformation circulating on social media or unofficial sources.
Conclusion
While acknowledging the disruption caused to lakhs of aspirants, the NTA emphasized that safeguarding the integrity of the examination system remains the top priority. The re-conducted NEET UG 2026 exam will be organized after further announcements from the agency.
