New Delhi: The National Testing Agency has announced that the NEET UG 2026 examination will be conducted again on June 21 after the government cancelled the earlier exam following allegations of a paper leak. The decision has affected more than 22 lakh medical aspirants across India and triggered widespread concern among students and parents.
The original examination was held on May 3, but complaints began emerging soon after the test. Investigators later found that several questions in the examination paper reportedly matched questions circulated earlier through online groups and unofficial study material. Authorities suspect that the leaked questions were shared through messaging platforms before the examination began.
Following these findings, the Government of India directed the National Testing Agency to cancel the examination and organise a fresh test to ensure fairness and transparency. The agency has now confirmed that the re examination will take place on June 21 across the country.
Officials said candidates will not have to submit fresh applications. Existing registrations and exam city preferences will remain valid. New admit cards will be issued before the examination. Students have also been advised to follow only official announcements and avoid rumours and false information circulating on social media.
Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation has intensified its probe into the alleged leak. Investigators have arrested several people from different states including Maharashtra and Bihar. Reports suggest that the suspected network may have links across Rajasthan, Kerala, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir as well.
Authorities are examining whether coaching centres, middlemen and candidates were involved in an organised operation that illegally circulated question papers before the examination. Raids and searches are continuing in multiple locations as investigators try to identify the full network behind the controversy.
The issue has also reached the Supreme Court. The Federation of All India Medical Associations has filed a petition seeking major reforms in the conduct of national level examinations. The organisation has demanded stronger monitoring systems, better cybersecurity measures and greater accountability within the National Testing Agency.
The petition has also suggested the introduction of computer based testing and digital security systems to prevent future leaks. The Supreme Court is expected to hear related petitions in the coming days.
Student groups in several cities have held protests demanding transparency and strict action against those responsible for the leak. Many students have expressed frustration and emotional stress after months of preparation were disrupted by the cancellation of the examination.
NEET UG is one of India’s largest and most competitive entrance examinations for admission to MBBS, BDS and other medical courses. The latest controversy has once again raised questions about the security and management of major public examinations in the country.