Paper Leak Probe To Nationwide Re-Test: Tracking The NEET-UG 2026 Timeline In 7 Points
Paper Leak Probe To Nationwide Re-Test: Tracking The NEET-UG 2026 Timeline In 7 Points Published By, Last Updated: June 21, 2026, 12:53 IST Over 22
Paper Leak Probe To Nationwide Re-Test: Tracking The NEET-UG 2026 Timeline In 7 Points Published By, Last Updated: June 21, 2026, 12:53 IST Over 22 lakh students are taking the NEET-UG 2026 re-exam amid unprecedented security after the original test was scrapped over alleged paper leak allegations. New Delhi: NEET-UG candidates and their guardians arrive at an examination centre (Photo: PTI) The Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET)-UG 2026 is being conducted afresh on Sunday under unprecedented security arrangements after the original examination was scrapped amid allegations of a paper leak and concerns over the integrity of the medical entrance process. More than 22 lakh candidates are appearing for the re-examination across thousands of centres in India and abroad, with authorities deploying extensive security and logistical measures to ensure a smooth and fair test. The re-test marks the culmination of weeks of controversy, investigations and administrative action that followed allegations that the question paper had been leaked before the original examination held on May 3. The Centre subsequently ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which has made several arrests as part of its ongoing inquiry. As students headed to examination centres on Sunday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged candidates to take the exam “fearlessly and free of anxiety", while appealing to all stakeholders not to do anything that could affect students’ mental health. Authorities across states tightened security, arranged transport facilities and put in place crowd-management measures to prevent any disruption. THE NEET-UG 2026 CONTROVERSY: TIMELINE IN 7 POINTS May 3 – Original NEET-UG 2026 Exam Conducted: The nationwide medical entrance examination was held for lakhs of aspirants seeking admission to undergraduate medical courses.
Soon after the test, allegations emerged that the question paper had been leaked before the examination. The nationwide medical entrance examination was held for lakhs of aspirants seeking admission to undergraduate medical courses. Soon after the test, allegations emerged that the question paper had been leaked before the examination. Paper Leak Claims Trigger Outrage: Complaints and allegations from students, parents and coaching circles led to widespread scrutiny of the examination process. Questions were raised about the sanctity of one of India’s largest entrance examinations. Complaints and allegations from students, parents and coaching circles led to widespread scrutiny of the examination process. Questions were raised about the sanctity of one of India’s largest entrance examinations. Government Orders Investigation: Amid mounting pressure and demands for accountability, the Union government ordered a comprehensive investigation into the alleged leak. The matter was handed over to the CBI for a detailed probe. Amid mounting pressure and demands for accountability, the Union government ordered a comprehensive investigation into the alleged leak. The matter was handed over to the CBI for a detailed probe. CBI Begins Probe, Arrests Follow: The central agency launched its investigation into the alleged irregularities. Several arrests were made as part of the probe into the suspected paper leak network. The central agency launched its investigation into the alleged irregularities. Several arrests were made as part of the probe into the suspected paper leak network. NTA Cancels Original Examination: Following the controversy, the Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the May 3 examination. The decision was aimed at preserving fairness and ensuring that all candidates received an equal opportunity.
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