The Supreme Court on Wednesday, August 19, stressed the need for institutionalising reforms within the National Testing Agency (NTA) and cautioned the government against repeatedly replacing expert panels without ensuring continuity in the reform process.

A Bench comprising Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe made the observations while hearing the matter related to the NEET-UG paper leak and the measures taken to strengthen the examination system.

Court Seeks Fresh Affidavit

The Bench directed Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to file a fresh affidavit detailing the steps taken by the authorities on the recommendations of earlier inquiry committees.

The court's observations centred on whether the reforms recommended after the NEET-UG controversy were being institutionalised within the NTA or whether the process was being repeatedly restarted through new committees and task forces.

‘Systemic Problem’ Needs Continuity

The Bench referred to the recommendations of the Radhakrishnan Committee, which had identified the examination-related concerns as a systemic problem requiring institutional mechanisms.

The court observed that while the reform process may appear sound on paper, its effectiveness needs to be assessed across successive examinations.

“This process on paper everything is good. But then one exam happens and by the time the second exam happens it is a new picture all together,” the Bench said.

The observation highlights the court's concern that reforms should not remain limited to reports and recommendations but should translate into sustained institutional practices.

Nilekani Task Force Under Focus

The hearing also touched upon the recently constituted Nandan Nilekani task force. The Supreme Court indicated that the formation of the new task force should not automatically mean that the recommendations of the earlier panel headed by a former ISRO chief have been abandoned.

The Bench made it clear that the new exercise should not be interpreted as discarding the earlier committee's work “lock, stock, and barrel”.

The court's approach suggests that recommendations from different expert groups may need to be integrated rather than treated as independent or competing reform exercises.

NTA Examination System

The National Testing Agency conducts several major entrance and eligibility examinations, including the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate), which determines admission to medical courses across the country.

The agency came under intense scrutiny following allegations surrounding the NEET-UG examination, including questions related to paper leaks, irregularities and the handling of examination security.

The Supreme Court has since been examining measures intended to improve the credibility and security of the examination process.

Institutional Reform Is Key

The latest observations place emphasis on long-term institutional reform rather than short-term responses to individual examination controversies.

The court's concern is that repeated committees should not result in a cycle where recommendations are made, followed by a new examination and then another review without establishing a stable system for implementation and monitoring.

The fresh affidavit sought from the government is expected to provide the court with a clearer picture of the progress made on the recommendations and the institutional mechanisms currently being put in place.

What Happens Next

The government will now have to place the updated details before the Supreme Court. The affidavit is expected to address the implementation of recommendations and clarify how the new task force fits into the broader reform framework.

The proceedings assume significance for future NEET-UG examinations as the court continues to examine whether changes within the NTA can provide a more secure, transparent and reliable testing system.

The Supreme Court on Friday emphasized the urgent need for a permanent and transparent examination system for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), stating that temporary arrangements such as deploying the Indian Air Force to transport question papers cannot serve as a lasting solution. Hearing a batch of petitions linked to the NEET paper leak controversy, the apex court made it clear that it would closely monitor every step taken by the Centre to strengthen the integrity of the examination process.

A Bench comprising Justice PS Narasimha and Justice Alok Aradhe observed that dependence on ad hoc arrangements over the years had exposed systemic weaknesses in India's examination framework. Stressing the importance of long-term reforms, the Court asked the Centre to present a detailed roadmap outlining measures being implemented to ensure transparency, security, and fairness in future NEET examinations.

Court Pushes for Permanent Examination Reforms

During the hearing, the Bench questioned the Union government about the progress made in implementing recommendations of the Radhakrishnan Committee, which was constituted after concerns over examination security. The Court also sought details regarding the adoption of the IIT model for conducting examinations and the reforms proposed by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Justice PS Narasimha remarked that while extraordinary measures may be necessary during emergencies, they cannot replace a comprehensive institutional framework.

Referring to the transportation of NEET-UG re-test question papers through the Indian Air Force, the Bench observed that such arrangements were temporary in nature and highlighted the need for a permanent mechanism capable of preventing paper leaks and ensuring public confidence in the examination system.

The Court noted that repeated dependence on temporary solutions had contributed to recurring challenges and stressed that a well-designed, structured examination process was now essential.

Centre Assures Comprehensive Reforms

Appearing for the Centre, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta assured the Bench that the government was actively working on strengthening the examination ecosystem and would soon submit a comprehensive status report before the Court.

Mehta said the future of lakhs of students could not be compromised under any circumstances and informed the Court that reforms being implemented extended beyond the recommendations of the Radhakrishnan Committee.

According to the Solicitor General, every aspect of the examination process—from question paper preparation and printing to transportation, storage, and distribution—is being monitored at the highest levels of government.

He also reminded the Court that a similar issue had come up two years earlier, when the Centre had explained the security protocols followed throughout the examination process. The government, he added, has since continued to improve those safeguards to prevent any recurrence of paper leak incidents.

FAIMA Seeks Detailed CBT Blueprint

Representing the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA), advocate Tanvi Dubey requested the Court to direct the authorities to place the complete Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the proposed Computer-Based Test (CBT) model for NEET-UG before the public.

The NTA has proposed shifting NEET-UG to a CBT format from next year as part of broader examination reforms. However, FAIMA argued that the detailed implementation blueprint has not yet been made public, making it difficult for students and stakeholders to understand the proposed changes.

The Bench took note of the submission while continuing to examine the broader issues relating to examination security and institutional reforms.

Focus on Transparency and Student Confidence

The NEET paper leak controversy has triggered widespread debate over the security of competitive examinations in India. The issue affected lakhs of medical aspirants and raised concerns about the credibility of the country's largest entrance examination.

The Supreme Court's observations underline the need for systemic reforms instead of emergency responses after irregularities occur. By seeking regular updates from the Centre and indicating that it will monitor the implementation process, the Court signalled its intention to ensure that examination reforms are institutionalised rather than remaining temporary measures.

The proposed transition to a computer-based examination system, along with enhanced security protocols and transparent operating procedures, is expected to form a significant part of the government's future strategy for conducting NEET.

As the matter continues before the apex court, students, educational institutions, and policymakers await the Centre's detailed action plan, which is expected to outline the roadmap for creating a secure, technology-driven, and transparent examination system capable of restoring confidence among millions of NEET aspirants across the country.

What began as another high-pressure medical entrance test soon turned into a nationwide credibility crisis.

The National Testing Agency conducted NEET-UG 2026 on May 3 for more than 20 lakh candidates. Within days, allegations surfaced that parts of the question paper had reached selected candidates before the examination.

The claims triggered panic among students and parents. For many aspirants, NEET represents years of preparation, coaching expenses and a single chance to enter medical college. Even a suspicion of unfair advantage was enough to shake confidence in the entire process.

Leak Claims Gain Ground

Investigating agencies began examining alleged links between intermediaries, examination insiders and candidates.

Officials suspected that parts of the paper or answers may have been circulated in exchange for money. The Central Bureau of Investigation later took up the case and arrested several people linked to the alleged network.

The government said 13 accused had been sent to jail. Investigators continued to examine digital communication, financial transactions and the possible role of people connected with the examination process.

Entire Exam Cancelled

The controversy reached a decisive point on May 12 when the NTA cancelled the May 3 examination.

Instead of conducting a limited test for candidates from suspicious centres, the agency ordered a fresh examination for all candidates. The move acknowledged the seriousness of the breach but also placed millions of students under fresh pressure.

Many candidates had already stopped preparing after completing the first examination. They suddenly had to return to books, coaching notes and mock tests, while medical admission schedules faced delays.

NEET 2026 At Glance

May 3: NTA conducts NEET-UG 2026
May 12: Examination cancelled after leak allegations
June 21: Fresh test held across India and overseas centres
July 16: Re-examination results declared
July 20: NTA rejects allegedly fabricated scorecards and OMR claims
July 23: Prime Minister announces fast-track courts for paper leak cases

The timeline shows how the NEET paper leak moved rapidly from an examination dispute to a national political and legal issue.

Re-Test Brings Relief

The NTA conducted the fresh NEET-UG examination on June 21 at thousands of centres in India and abroad.

More than 20 lakh candidates reportedly appeared for the re-test. Authorities increased surveillance, tightened examination-centre procedures and monitored the movement of question papers more closely.

The NTA declared the result on July 16 after releasing the provisional answer key, recorded responses and scanned OMR sheets.

For students, the result brought some clarity. However, it did not end the wider debate over accountability, examination security and the emotional cost imposed on candidates.

Fresh Claims Surface

Days after the results, social media posts alleged discrepancies in certain OMR sheets and scorecards.

On July 20, the NTA said some documents circulating online appeared fabricated, digitally altered or created with artificial intelligence tools. It warned of legal action against those spreading fake material while asking candidates with genuine concerns to use official grievance channels.

This created a second challenge for the agency. It had to investigate real complaints without allowing manipulated documents to deepen confusion among students.

The development became a major Public Interest Story and dominated Latest News Today, India News Update and Trending News India coverage.

Protests Enter Parliament

Student anger soon moved from examination centres to the streets.

The Cockroach Janta Party and other groups organised protests demanding responsibility for the leak, stronger examination reforms and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Opposition parties raised the issue during the Monsoon Session of Parliament. They demanded an immediate discussion and ministerial accountability.

The government said it was ready to debate the matter without pre-conditions. However, disagreements over the format and political demands led to repeated adjournments in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

The NEET controversy had by then moved beyond education. It had become a test of how the government responds when a national examination loses public trust.

Fast-Track Trials Promised

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on July 23 that the government would create fast-track courts for paper leak cases.

He said those who played with the future of young people would not be spared. The proposed courts aim to prevent such cases from remaining stuck in the regular judicial system for years.

The announcement may speed up trials, but the larger challenge remains prevention.

Authorities must secure question-paper preparation, printing, transport and digital storage. They must also improve background checks, real-time monitoring and coordination between the NTA, police and cybercrime units.

Five Key Questions Answered

1. What exactly happened in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak?

Investigators suspect that parts of the NEET-UG question paper reached selected people before the original examination. The alleged network reportedly involved intermediaries and individuals connected with the examination process. The CBI has examined digital records, financial transactions and handwritten material while investigating how the questions were accessed and circulated. The agency has also arrested people allegedly linked to the case.

2. Why was a nationwide re-examination necessary?

The authorities ordered a fresh test because doubts over the integrity of the original examination affected the credibility of the entire merit list. Restricting the re-test to a few centres could not have fully addressed concerns about how widely the material had circulated. The NTA conducted the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination on June 21 under tighter security and biometric-verification protocols.

3. Who is investigating the paper leak?

The Central Bureau of Investigation is leading the criminal investigation. Its probe has focused on the alleged source of the leaked questions, the role of examination experts and intermediaries, and possible payments made by beneficiaries. A Delhi court has also permitted the agency to collect additional handwriting samples from an arrested professor, showing that forensic comparison remains part of the investigation.

4. Were the viral OMR-sheet complaints genuine?

Not all of them. After the re-test results, several images circulated online claiming major differences between candidates’ OMR responses and official scores. The NTA said its examination of four widely shared cases found that the images had been forged or digitally manipulated. The agency warned against fake and AI-generated scorecards but said candidates with genuine grievances could approach it through official channels.

5. What happens next in the NEET paper leak case?

The investigation will move towards chargesheets and prosecution once the CBI completes evidence collection. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced fast-track courts for paper leak cases, which the government says will help prevent prolonged trials. Meanwhile, the NTA published the NEET-UG 2026 scorecards on July 16, allowing the medical admission process to move forward even as the criminal and political disputes continue.

 Indore student Aradhya Garg has secured All India Rank (AIR) 110 in the NEET-UG 2026 examination, emerging as the city's top performer. In the General category, he secured AIR 85, marking one of the best performances from Madhya Pradesh in this year's national medical entrance examination. The National Testing Agency (NTA) declared the NEET-UG 2026 results on Thursday night. (The Times of India)

Around 20 lakh candidates appeared for the examination across the country, with 11.21 lakh candidates qualifying for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH and other undergraduate medical courses. Madhya Pradesh alone had nearly 1.18 lakh aspirants, who appeared at 283 examination centres spread across 30 districts. (The Times of India)

Consistent Preparation Paid Off

Aradhya's father, Yogi Garg, said his son remained focused despite the uncertainty surrounding the examination after the original NEET-UG 2026 test was cancelled. According to him, Aradhya had scored over 700 marks in the previous attempt and secured 690 marks in the re-examination despite a tougher question paper.

He said Aradhya followed a disciplined routine, attending coaching classes from morning until night and regularly discussing preparation strategies at home. Consistency, regular practice and time management played a crucial role in his success.

Meditation Helped Maintain Focus

Yogi Garg, who is a yoga expert, said meditation formed an important part of Aradhya's preparation. Daily meditation sessions helped improve concentration and manage exam-related stress. Aradhya was also part of his coaching institute's merit batch, where he underwent focused preparation for the competitive examination.

Re-Exam Conducted After Cancellation

The original NEET-UG 2026 examination held on May 3 was cancelled following the paper leak controversy. The NTA conducted the re-examination on June 21 across 551 cities in India and abroad through 5,440 examination centres in 13 languages. Counselling for MBBS, BDS, AYUSH and allied medical courses is expected to begin shortly. (The Times of India)

Online NEET from 2027

Following the paper leak controversy, the Centre has announced that NEET-UG will shift to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format from 2027. While the examination mode will change from offline to online, the syllabus, question pattern and marking scheme will remain unchanged. Candidates will also be provided mock tests and practice sessions before the transition. (Wikipedia)

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has declared the results of the Re-NEET UG 2026 examination, with Raipur's Shiprak Goyal and Charvi Agrawal emerging as the joint state toppers from Chhattisgarh. Both candidates secured an impressive 99.99 percentile in the medical entrance examination.

Shiprak Goyal secured All India Rank (AIR) 117, while Charvi Agrawal achieved AIR 136 in the Unreserved (UR) category. Although both candidates earned the same percentile, their national ranks differ due to the NTA's tie-breaking criteria.

'Treated It Like Any Other Exam'

Speaking after the results, Shiprak Goyal said he approached the re-examination with a calm mindset.

"I considered it just like any other regular examination. If you treat it as something extraordinary, the pressure increases and mistakes become more likely during the test," he said.

Consistency More Important Than Long Study Hours

Sharing his preparation strategy, Shiprak said that studying for extremely long hours is unnecessary.

He believes that eight to ten hours of focused study every day over two years is sufficient to perform well in competitive examinations, rather than exhausting oneself with marathon study sessions.

Family and Teachers Motivated Me

Referring to the re-examination following the cancellation of the earlier NEET UG test, Shiprak admitted that appearing again was emotionally challenging.

However, he credited his family, teachers and friends for helping him regain confidence and stay motivated.

"There was definitely fear, but worrying doesn't change the outcome. My job was to prepare and appear for the exam. The final result is beyond our control," he said.

Around 45,000 Candidates Appeared in Chhattisgarh

Approximately 45,000 candidates appeared for the Re-NEET UG 2026 examination across Chhattisgarh.

The exam was conducted at 127 centres statewide, including 25 centres in Raipur, under strict security arrangements as per NTA guidelines.

Candidates were allowed entry only after multiple levels of verification and security checks.

Scorecards Available Online

Candidates who appeared for the June 21 Re-NEET UG 2026 examination can download their scorecards from the official NTA website using their application number and password.

Meanwhile, the NTA has extended the deadline for the NEET UG 2026 examination fee refund process to July 31. Candidates who appeared in the original May 3 examination and are eligible for a refund must submit their bank account details through the online portal before the deadline.

According to the NTA, nearly 11.46 lakh candidates have already submitted their banking details for the refund process.

The two accused were produced before the court after the expiry of their earlier judicial custody period. Special CBI Judge Ajay Gupta passed the order on an application moved by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which sought an extension of their custody as the investigation continues.

Representing the agency, Public Prosecutor Neetu Singh argued for the extension before the court. The matter remains under active investigation by the CBI, which is probing an alleged network involved in obtaining and distributing leaked examination papers ahead of the national-level medical entrance test.

According to investigators, the case has so far led to the arrest of 12 individuals. Those arrested include Mangi Lal Bival, Vikas Bival, Dinesh Bival, Yash Yadav, Shubham Khairnar, Manisha Waghmare, Prahlad Kulkarni, Dhananjay Lokhande, Manisha Mandhare, Shivraj Raghunath Motegaonkar, Manisha Sanjay Havaldar and Dr Manoj Shirure. All the accused are currently lodged in judicial custody.

The case has attracted significant attention due to the seriousness of the allegations and the scale of the examination involved. NEET-UG is one of India’s largest entrance examinations, conducted annually for admission to undergraduate medical courses across the country.

The court has also passed several interim orders in the matter over the past few weeks. Earlier, accused Yash Yadav was permitted to appear in the re-conducted NEET-UG examination held on June 21 and was also allowed to attend his sister’s wedding on June 22. In a separate order, the court rejected the regular bail application filed by accused Manisha Waghmare.

The investigation stems from a complaint filed by a government official on May 12, 2026. Based on the complaint, an FIR was registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Prevention of Corruption Act and laws related to the use of unfair means in public examinations.

According to the CBI, Mangi Lal Bival allegedly approached Shubham Khairnar to obtain the NEET-UG question paper for his son, Vikas Bival. Investigators claim that leaked examination material was recovered from Mangi Lal Bival’s mobile phone during the probe.

The agency has further alleged that Mangi Lal Bival procured the leaked paper from Yash Yadav for ₹10 lakh and subsequently facilitated its circulation to other candidates. During questioning, Vikas Bival reportedly admitted that he came in contact with Yash Yadav while attending coaching classes in Rajasthan’s Sikar district.

CBI officials believe the accused were part of a larger conspiracy involving the procurement and sale of confidential examination material. The agency has alleged that leaked papers were sold to candidates for amounts reaching up to ₹12 lakh.

The developments come amid continued scrutiny of examination security mechanisms and concerns over malpractice in competitive recruitment and admission tests. Investigators are examining financial transactions, digital evidence and communication records to establish the extent of the alleged network.

With the court extending the judicial custody of two key accused, the investigation is expected to continue in the coming days. The next hearing in the matter is scheduled for July 11.

According to the agency, only 8,29,510 candidates have so far confirmed or updated their banking information. NTA has warned that eligible candidates who fail to complete the process by July 7, 2026, will not be considered for the refund.

The agency stated that the refund process has already commenced for candidates whose bank details have been successfully verified. Applicants who have not yet completed the verification process have been advised to log in to the official portal immediately and update the required information.

NTA has fixed July 7, 2026, at 11:50 PM as the final deadline for submitting or correcting bank account details. Officials clarified that no requests for modifications or updates will be entertained after the deadline expires.

To complete the process, candidates must log in to the official NEET UG portal, review their existing bank account information and make corrections wherever necessary. Details such as account number, IFSC code and account holder name should be checked carefully before final submission. After updating the information, candidates are advised to download and save the confirmation page for future reference.

The agency emphasized that incorrect or incomplete banking information could delay or prevent the refund from being processed. Therefore, applicants should verify all details thoroughly before submitting them on the portal.

NTA also cautioned candidates against waiting until the last moment, as heavy traffic on the website or technical issues could create difficulties in completing the process before the deadline.

Eligible candidates who successfully update and verify their bank account details within the stipulated period will be included in the next phase of refund disbursement.

The latest advisory comes as part of NTA’s efforts to ensure a smooth and transparent refund process for NEET UG 2026 applicants. Candidates have been encouraged to visit the official website at the earliest and complete the formalities to avoid missing out on their refund eligibility.

Over 1 lakh candidates appear across Madhya Pradesh; strict security, biometric verification, 1:30 PM entry deadline enforced

The Re-NEET UG 2026 examination was conducted across Madhya Pradesh on Sunday under unprecedented security arrangements. Over one lakh medical aspirants appeared at 283 centres across 30 districts in the state.

Bhopal has 32 examination centres with 13,774 candidates, while Indore has the highest with over 14,000 candidates. Jabalpur has 23 centres with 10,426 candidates, Gwalior has 25 centres with 5,000 candidates. Chhindwara has 4,303, Guna 1,839, Vidisha 1,709, Narmadapuram 1,283 and Ashok Nagar 865 candidates.

The examination is being held from 2 PM to 5:15 PM in pen-and-paper mode. Reporting, biometric verification and frisking began at 11 AM and will continue until 1:30 PM. No entry is permitted after 1:30 PM.

Candidates have been strictly prohibited from carrying mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, smartwatches or any electronic gadgets inside exam centres.

Rewa: Pliers Used to Remove Pant Chains and Buttons

In Rewa district, the examination is being conducted at 13 centres with 5,399 candidates. Entry began at 11:30 AM. Candidates underwent intensive checking through metal detectors and manual frisking.

Security was so strict that several candidates' pant chains and buttons were removed using pliers and screwdrivers before they were allowed entry. Chains, metal buttons, kalawa (sacred threads), jewellery and other metallic items were removed outside the centres. The tight checking created a brief commotion outside some centres. Fifty percent of police personnel deployed were women.

Bhopal: Students Denied Entry Even for Seconds of Delay

At Bhopal's Sarojini Subhash Higher Secondary Utkrisht Vidyalaya, candidates were denied entry for being just 30-40 seconds late. Parents expressed anger, alleging inadequate guidance outside the centre led to delays in finding roll numbers and rooms.

Additional SP stated, "Sending them inside is not in my hands." At PM Shri Central School No. 2, gates were closed exactly at 1:30 PM. Three candidates remained standing outside even after gates closed.

A student who forgot his Aadhaar card at home was denied entry after security personnel refused to accept a digital copy sent via WhatsApp. He rushed back home to get the original.

Indore: Policewoman Helps Student Reach Centre on Time

In Indore, a student named Riya forgot her Aadhaar card at her hostel and was panicking. Sub-inspector Abhiruchi from Palasia police station, posted at Government Utkrisht Vidyalaya Bal Vinay Mandir, helped her. She contacted Riya's parents via WhatsApp and arranged a copy of the Aadhaar card, allowing the student to enter on time.

At SGSITS centre, a student had to remove her earrings before entry. Security personnel conducted thorough metal detector checks.

Morena: Student's Centre Changed from Gwalior to Bhopal

Dharmendra Prajapati, a resident of Morena, had his exam centre originally in Gwalior. However, NTA changed it to Bhopal at the last minute, forcing him to travel from Gwalior to Bhopal. "The change caused some inconvenience, but I managed the arrangements in time," he said.

Morena has 7 examination centres with 180 police personnel deployed.

Chhatarpur: Student Reaches Wrong Centre, 22 km Away

A student arrived at PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya, Chhatarpur, thinking it was his centre. During document verification, he discovered his actual centre was PM Shri Navodaya Vidyalaya in Naugaon, about 22 kilometres away. He immediately rushed on a bike towards the correct centre.

Satna: Water Bottle Wrappers Removed, Students Made to Remove Tops

At Satna's examination centres, tight security checks were enforced. Water bottle wrappers were removed. Female students wearing tops in their ears had to remove them. One candidate's shoes were kept outside, and he was allowed entry barefoot.

Student Voices: 'Not Even One Percent Trust'

Students expressed anxiety and frustration over the paper leak episode. Divyani Parihar, a candidate in Bhopal, said she had prepared for three years and had performed well in the previous exam before the cancellation.

Another student said: "It feels bad to give the exam again. We don't even know if this exam will happen properly or if this paper will also be leaked."

A student in Guna said: "The last one-and-a-half months have been full of stress and uncertainty. Paper leak incidents have affected our hard work and mental state."

Prachi, a candidate, said her preparation is good but she has "not even one percent trust" regarding paper leaks.

Pranavi Upadhyay, a JEE aspirant, called the Indian education system "very dirty" and said paper leaks shatter the dreams of lakhs of students.

Why the Re-Exam?

The original NEET-UG examination was held on May 3, 2026. Following allegations of paper leak, the NTA cancelled it on May 12. The CBI is investigating the matter. Today's examination is the re-conduct.

Authorities have implemented GPS tracking of vehicles carrying question papers, CRPF escorts, CCTV surveillance, Aadhaar-based biometric verification, and additional biometric machines. More than 22.79 lakh candidates are appearing across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad.

Entry closes at 1:30 PM; belts, jewellery banned; over 45,000 candidates appear in Chhattisgarh

Amidst tight security and elaborate arrangements, the Re-NEET UG 2026 examination is being conducted across the country today. The exam is scheduled from 2 PM to 5:15 PM. At exam centers in Raipur, continuous announcements are being made urging candidates to enter the premises on time.

According to the announcements, security checks and document verification procedures may take approximately half an hour. Candidates have been advised to avoid any last-minute rush and enter the examination center well in time.

Large crowds of candidates and their parents have gathered outside exam centers across the city. In Chhattisgarh, nearly 45,000 candidates are appearing for the exam, of which 28,100 are from the state itself. A total of 127 exam centers have been set up across the state, with 25 centers in Raipur.

Strict Timeline, Security Protocols

Reporting, biometric verification and frisking began at 11 AM at all exam centers and will continue until 1:30 PM. No entry will be permitted after 1:30 PM under any circumstances. Divyang (differently-abled) candidates will be given an additional 65 minutes.

Authorities have strictly prohibited candidates from carrying mobile phones, Bluetooth devices, earphones, smartwatches or any other electronic gadgets inside the center. A dress code has also been enforced - candidates have been advised to wear light-colored, simple clothes with no metallic buttons or heavy accessories.

Multiple District-Level Arrangements

Jagdalpur: In Bastar district, four centers have been set up including Government PG College, Engineering College, MLB School and Jagtu Mahara School. Collector Akash Chhikara confirmed that all centers are equipped with CCTV cameras and tight security arrangements.

Bilaspur: With 19 exam centers, the city has seen a significant influx of students and their families from neighboring districts. Police have imposed a complete ban on heavy vehicle entry in the city during the examination hours to manage traffic and security.

Three-Layer Security, Raipur Collector Conducted Inspections

Three-layer security has been deployed at all exam centers. District Collector Dr. Gaurav Singh conducted inspections of various exam centers in Raipur two days prior, visiting PM Shri Atmanand R.D. Tiwari School Amapara, Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 2 in DDU Nagar, and the NIT center.

During inspection at a Raipur center, a female candidate was asked to change her slippers during security checks.

Why Re-NEET? The Paper Leak Controversy

The original NEET-UG examination was held on May 3, 2026. However, following allegations of a paper leak, the NTA canceled the exam on May 12. The CBI is currently investigating the matter. Today's examination marks the re-conduct of the test.

Notably, the Lok Pariksha Adhiniyam 2024 has provisions for up to 10 years of imprisonment and a fine of ₹1 crore for paper leak and cheating cases.

First-Time Changes: Extra 15 Minutes

For the first time, the examination duration has been extended by 15 minutes. The NTA introduced this change to accommodate delays caused by reading instructions, affixing photographs or signing attendance sheets.

Documents Required at Exam Centers:

• Re-NEET Admit Card

• Passport-size photograph (same as on application)

• Valid photo identity proof (Aadhaar/PAN/Passport/Voter ID)

• PwD/PwBD certificate (if applicable)

Over 5 Lakh Security Personnel Deployed

The exam process is being monitored by over 5 lakh security personnel, more than 6,000 supervisors and 674 city coordinators across the country. All centers have CCTV surveillance and technical monitoring systems in place to ensure transparency and fairness.

Dress Code Advisory

Candidates have been advised to:

• Wear light, simple clothing

• Avoid metallic buttons, chains, jewellery or heavy footwear

• Wear simple slippers or sandals

Those wearing traditional or religious attire may face longer security checks and have been advised to arrive even earlier.

The Bigger Picture

NEET-UG serves as the national entrance test for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH (BAMS, BHMS), nursing and other medical courses across all government and private medical colleges in India, including prestigious institutions like AIIMS and JIPMER. Over 1 lakh seats are filled through this examination annually.

In a related development, the Chhattisgarh High Court, in an urgent hearing before Chief Justice Ramesh Sinha, permitted a student lodged in Raipur Central Jail to appear for the exam. The court directed the Raipur Police Commissioner and Jail Superintendent to ensure the student is taken to the exam center under police security.

District administration has appealed to parents and teachers to provide a stress-free environment to students and not pay attention to any rumors.

NEET-UG re-exam candidates in Madhya Pradesh have been barred from carrying electronic devices, while students voiced concerns over paper leaks and transparency in the examination system.

 With the NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for June 21, authorities across Madhya Pradesh have tightened security measures and issued detailed guidelines to ensure smooth conduct of the country's largest medical entrance test. District collectors have directed examination centres to strictly prohibit candidates from carrying any electronic devices, including mobile phones, smart watches, Bluetooth devices and earphones.

A state-wide mock drill is also being conducted ahead of the examination to assess preparedness at test centres. Centre superintendents have been instructed to complete the exercise before 5 pm while maintaining confidentiality regarding security arrangements.

The National Testing Agency (NTA), which is conducting the examination, has advised candidates to reach their centres well before the reporting deadline to avoid last-minute inconvenience.

Security Measures Tightened

Authorities have put in place multiple layers of verification at examination centres. Candidate reporting, biometric authentication and frisking will begin at 11 am and continue until 1:30 pm.

No candidate will be allowed entry after 1:30 pm. The examination for general candidates will be conducted from 2 pm to 5:15 pm.

Candidates under the Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) category who are eligible for compensatory time will be allowed an additional 65 minutes, extending their examination till 6:20 pm.

Officials say the stricter measures are aimed at preventing any possibility of malpractice following controversies that surrounded the earlier examination process.

Fewer Candidates in Bhopal

The re-examination will witness a slight decline in the number of candidates appearing in Bhopal.

According to official figures, 13,774 candidates are expected to appear this year, compared to 14,334 candidates who took the earlier examination. The number of examination centres in the city has also been reduced from 33 to 32 as one centre is being used for a Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) examination on the same day.

Indore is expected to host more than 14,000 candidates, while significant numbers are also expected in Jabalpur, Gwalior, Chhindwara, Vidisha, Guna and Narmadapuram.

Students Raise Concerns

Several students preparing for the examination expressed concern over the impact of the paper leak controversy on their mental well-being.

Divyani Parihar, who has been preparing for NEET for the past three years, said she believed her previous examination had gone well and was waiting for the results before reports of irregularities emerged.

She said many students had mentally moved on after the examination and were now finding it difficult to prepare for another test under uncertain circumstances.

Other candidates echoed similar concerns, although some expressed confidence that stricter monitoring would help prevent irregularities this time.

Trust Deficit Remains

While many students acknowledged the enhanced security arrangements, some admitted they still lacked complete confidence in the system.

Prachi, another candidate, said she had prepared thoroughly but remained unsure whether examination-related controversies could be entirely ruled out. Others said they hoped the authorities had learned from past mistakes and would ensure a fair process.

The concerns reflect broader anxieties among aspirants who invest years of preparation in highly competitive examinations.

Education System Under Scrutiny

Pranvi Upadhyay, a student preparing for engineering entrance examinations, said incidents such as paper leaks affect not only candidates but also public confidence in the education system.

She argued that millions of students invest significant time and effort in preparing for competitive examinations and deserve a transparent and accountable process.

Her remarks mirror a wider debate that has emerged across the country regarding examination security, institutional accountability and reforms in recruitment and entrance testing systems.

Dress Code and Travel Advisory

Candidates have also been instructed to follow a prescribed dress code. Light-coloured, simple clothing is recommended, while garments with large buttons, multiple pockets or thick fabrics should be avoided. Jewellery, belts, watches and other prohibited items will not be permitted inside examination halls.

Authorities have further advised students to visit their examination centres a day in advance to avoid confusion on the test day.

To facilitate travel, special train services have also been arranged on routes connecting Bhopal, Indore and Ratlam. Officials say these measures are intended to ensure that candidates reach their centres on time and can focus entirely on the examination.

The debate over India's competitive examination system intensified on Wednesday after Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra alleged that families of students appearing for the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) collectively spend around ₹1.32 lakh crore every year. She argued that the amount is nearly equivalent to the Union government's annual education budget of ₹1.40 lakh crore.

In a post on social media, Priyanka Gandhi also alleged that loan waivers worth ₹16 lakh crore had been extended to select business groups, drawing a contrast between public spending on education and financial support provided to corporate entities.

Her remarks came a day after Rahul Gandhi visited Kota, Rajasthan, and interacted with students and their families under the "Chhatro Ki Goonj" programme. The discussion focused on academic pressure, competitive examinations, and the mental health challenges faced by students preparing for high-stakes entrance tests.

Focus on Student Pressure

Addressing students at Kota's Dussehra Ground, Rahul Gandhi said the current education system places immense pressure on young people and often contributes to anxiety and emotional distress.

He urged collective efforts to create an environment where students are not pushed toward extreme measures due to academic stress. Rahul also claimed that preparation for major competitive examinations, including NEET and JEE, costs Indian families nearly ₹5 lakh crore annually.

Kota, known as India's coaching hub, attracts thousands of aspirants every year preparing for medical and engineering entrance examinations.

NTA Revises Admit Card Process

Meanwhile, the National Testing Agency (NTA) announced a significant change in the process for downloading NEET-UG 2026 re-examination admit cards.

According to the revised procedure, candidates can now download their admit cards even if they have not completed bank account verification. Earlier, verification was mandatory before access to admit cards was granted.

The agency clarified that students will remain eligible for fee refunds even if bank verification is completed after downloading the admit card. The move is expected to benefit candidates who faced technical or documentation-related delays.

Re-Examination on June 21

The NEET-UG 2026 re-examination is scheduled to be conducted on 21 June in a single shift from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM. Candidates will also receive an additional 15 minutes for administrative formalities.

Earlier this month, NTA introduced several changes for the re-exam. The duration of the test has been extended from 180 minutes to 195 minutes, and candidates will be provided with four rough-work sheets along with increased space for calculations and notes.

Background of the Re-Test

The original NEET-UG 2026 examination was conducted on 3 May across the country. However, allegations of question paper leaks and examination irregularities surfaced from multiple states soon after the test.

Following preliminary investigations and reports of potential malpractice, the examination was cancelled on 12 May. Subsequently, the Central government and investigating agencies recommended a fresh examination to ensure fairness and transparency in the admission process.

Importance of NEET

NEET remains India's largest medical entrance examination and serves as the gateway for admission to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, nursing, and other healthcare-related courses.

The examination is used for admission to more than one lakh seats in medical and allied health institutions across the country, including premier institutions such as All India Institute of Medical Sciences and Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research.

With the re-examination approaching, concerns over exam integrity, student welfare, and the rising financial burden of competitive test preparation continue to remain at the centre of the national education debate.

NEET UG 2026 candidates will get a 3-hour 15-minute examination window, along with additional rough-work pages and a revised question paper layout aimed at improving exam-day convenience.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced a set of changes for NEET UG 2026, including an extension of the examination duration by 15 minutes and modifications to the question paper format. The move comes ahead of the medical entrance examination scheduled to be held on June 21 and is aimed at improving the overall experience of candidates while maintaining examination security and fairness.

In a public notice issued on June 12, the agency said the measures were introduced after considering feedback received from candidates over the years. Officials indicated that the revisions are intended to address practical concerns faced by students during one of the country's most competitive entrance examinations.

Longer Examination Window

One of the most significant changes is the extension of the total examination window to 195 minutes. The NEET UG 2026 examination will now be conducted from 2 pm to 5:15 pm.

According to the NTA, the additional 15 minutes account for mandatory pre-examination formalities, including attendance verification, signature collection, and other invigilation-related procedures. The agency noted that these formalities often consume a portion of the allotted time and that the revised schedule is intended to ensure candidates receive the full writing time envisaged for the examination.

The decision is expected to bring some relief to students who have previously raised concerns about administrative procedures reducing their effective time inside the examination hall.

More Space for Calculations

The NTA has also increased the number of rough-work pages provided within the question paper booklet.

Candidates will now receive four rough-work pages instead of the two pages available in previous editions of the examination. The additional pages are expected to help students perform calculations, prepare working notes, and draw diagrams more comfortably during the test.

Given the nature of NEET, where subjects such as Physics and Chemistry often require detailed calculations, the move is likely to be welcomed by aspirants.

Revised Question Paper Design

Another notable change relates to the layout of the question paper booklet. The agency said it received feedback from candidates, particularly left-handed students, regarding the placement of rough-work pages.

Previously, all rough-work sheets were located at the end of the booklet. Under the revised format, two rough-work pages will be placed immediately after the instruction page, while the remaining two pages will continue to be provided at the end.

The revised design will be implemented across both English and regional language versions of the question paper.

Feedback-Driven Measures

Officials said the changes are the result of continued engagement with candidates and an effort to improve examination logistics without affecting security protocols.

The NTA observed that even relatively small adjustments in examination design can have a meaningful impact on candidate comfort and performance, especially in a high-stakes test such as NEET UG.

Over the years, students and parents have frequently sought improvements in exam-day arrangements, ranging from seating and verification procedures to better access to rough-work space. The latest measures appear to address some of those concerns directly.

Focus on Fairness and Security

While introducing the changes, the agency reiterated that maintaining fairness and examination integrity remains a priority.

The NTA said the revised arrangements have been designed to improve convenience while preserving strict standards of security and transparency. No changes have been announced to the examination syllabus, question pattern, or evaluation process.

Instructions for Candidates

Candidates appearing for NEET UG 2026 have been advised to carefully read the instructions mentioned in their admit cards and the information bulletin. The agency also urged students to cooperate with examination staff to ensure smooth conduct of the test at centres across the country.

With just days remaining before the examination, the changes are expected to offer candidates a more comfortable testing environment while ensuring that the NEET UG 2026 process remains fair, secure, and efficient.