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.

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has ordered a temporary ban on messaging platform Telegram in India under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The restriction will remain in effect until June 22, covering the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21.

The government has also directed Telegram to disable its message editing feature in India until June 30, even after the exam lifts. This means users will not be able to edit previously sent messages during this period.

According to the National Testing Agency (NTA), the action was taken because certain individuals were using Telegram's edit function to create fake evidence of paper leaks in national-level examinations. "Some people would edit old messages and add question papers or PDFs to them. Later, it was claimed that the paper had leaked before the exam," an NTA press release stated.

Multiple channels demanding money for exam papers

The agency said several Telegram channels were operating under names like "Paper Leaked NEET", "Re-NEET 2026", "Private Mafia", and "REE NEET MAFIAA". Officials said these channels were demanding thousands to lakhs of rupees from students and parents in exchange for purported exam papers.

The Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C), in collaboration with Bihar, Gujarat, and Rajasthan Police, has already taken action against several Telegram channels, groups, and bots. The Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch has arrested members of an interstate cyber fraud gang linked to the racket.

Investigations have so far revealed eight Telegram channels, transactions worth approximately ₹1.5 crore, and about 1,000 mobile numbers connected to the fraud, police sources said.

NTA: Ban last resort, inconvenience unavoidable

The NTA acknowledged the ban might inconvenience general users but defended the move as a last resort. "Prior to this, several steps were taken, including the removal of objectionable content. This decision was necessary to maintain the fairness of examinations," the agency said.

The NEET-UG examination, originally conducted on May 3, was cancelled following allegations of question paper leaks in several states. The NTA scrapped the exam on May 12 after investigation found indications of irregularities. The re-examination will now be held on June 21.

Changes made for re-exam

The NTA has increased the exam duration from 180 minutes to 195 minutes for the re-test. Space for rough work has also been expanded in the answer sheet.

NEET serves as the gateway to over 1 lakh medical seats across India, including MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, nursing, and other courses at premier institutions such as AIIMS and JIPMER.

The agency has advised students not to trust unconfirmed information circulating on social media and to rely only on official updates at neet.nta.nic.in. Further details on the ban's enforcement are awaited.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has extended the NEET‑UG 2026 exam duration by 15 minutes and introduced layout changes aimed at easing exam‑day procedures for candidates. The re‑exam on June 21 will now run for 195 minutes — from 2:00 pm to 5:15 pm — the agency said in a public notice on June 12.

The adjusted timing accommodates mandatory pre‑exam formalities such as attendance signing and invigilation checks, NTA officials said, adding that the change is intended to protect candidates’ actual writing time from being consumed by administrative procedures. The move follows feedback from students and is part of a package of candidate‑friendly measures introduced ahead of the re‑examination.

One visible change: the number of rough‑work pages has doubled. Candidates will receive four rough‑work pages in the question‑paper booklet instead of two. The NTA said the extra space will help students perform calculations, draw diagrams and prepare working notes more comfortably during the high‑stakes test.

The agency has also revised the booklet layout to assist left‑handed students. Two rough‑work pages will now appear immediately after the instruction page, while the remaining two will be at the end of the booklet — a departure from the earlier format where all rough pages were placed at the back. NTA said the layout change will be implemented across English and regional language papers.

“These are small but meaningful changes aimed at improving the examination experience,” the notice said, noting that the updates were made after reviewing feedback and operational considerations. NTA asserted that the measures do not compromise security or fairness and urged candidates to follow instructions on the admit card and information bulletin.

The timing revision also aligns with recent security measures around NEET‑UG 2026. Following last month’s cancellation of the exam due to alleged paper leaks, authorities tightened controls, including a temporary restriction on Telegram during the re‑exam period and enhanced cybercrime probes into channels allegedly trading in exam material.

Candidates and coaching groups welcomed the extra writing time and additional rough pages, calling them practical changes that could reduce last‑minute scramble. “Fifteen minutes more and extra space for rough work will help many students manage calculations without losing time,” said a NEET aspirant, requesting anonymity.

Examination managers said logistics will be adjusted accordingly: exam centres will stagger entry and invigilation procedures within the extended window to ensure orderly conduct. Centres must also brief staff and invigilators on the new booklet format and distribution protocol, the NTA notice added.

Experts in assessment design said such small administrative improvements can make a difference in candidates’ performance, especially in a long, high‑pressure test. But they cautioned that operational discipline at exam centres remains critical; extended time will be beneficial only if all centres uniformly implement the timing and layout changes.

NTA reiterated that students should rely only on official channels — the NEET portal and NTA’s verified handles — for updates, and cooperate with centre staff to ensure smooth conduct. The agency also reminded candidates to reach out to helplines listed in their admit cards for any last‑minute clarifications.

With the re‑exam scheduled for June 21, NTA said it will continue issuing advisories and operational instructions to centres in the coming days to ensure the changes are implemented uniformly across the country.

The UGC NET June 2026 examination will be conducted from June 22 to June 30 in Computer-Based Test mode, with admit cards being released in phases by the National Testing Agency.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is set to conduct the UGC NET June 2026 examination from June 22 to June 30 for candidates seeking eligibility for Assistant Professor positions, Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), and Ph.D. admissions across Indian universities and higher education institutions.

With the examination date approaching, the NTA has started releasing exam city intimation slips and admit cards in a phased manner based on candidates' scheduled examination dates and subjects.

Exam Process Underway

Candidates can access their exam city details and admit cards through the official UGC NET portal using their application credentials. Officials have advised aspirants to regularly check the portal for updates, as admit cards are being issued progressively rather than all at once.

The examination is among the country's largest eligibility tests for higher education and research aspirants, attracting lakhs of candidates from various academic disciplines every year.

Nine-Day Examination Window

The June 2026 session will be conducted over nine days, from June 22 to June 30, at designated examination centres across the country.

The NTA conducts the examination in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, allowing candidates to appear for both papers in a single sitting. The schedule has been designed to accommodate multiple subjects across different shifts during the examination period.

Candidates have been advised to verify their reporting time, examination shift and centre details carefully before appearing for the test.

Combined Paper Format

The UGC NET examination consists of two papers conducted in a single three-hour session without any break.

Paper 1 focuses on teaching and research aptitude, reasoning ability, comprehension, communication, data interpretation and general awareness. It comprises 50 compulsory questions.

Paper 2 contains 100 questions from the candidate's chosen subject and assesses domain-specific knowledge. Both papers are mandatory and contribute to the final score.

The total examination duration is 180 minutes.

Marking Scheme Remains Unchanged

According to the prescribed pattern, candidates receive two marks for every correct answer.

There is no negative marking for incorrect responses or unanswered questions, allowing aspirants to attempt all questions without the risk of score deductions.

Education experts believe the absence of negative marking encourages broader participation and strategic answering during the examination.

Answer Key Expected Next Month

Following the conclusion of the examination, the NTA is expected to release a provisional answer key, allowing candidates to review responses and raise objections, if any.

Based on previous examination cycles, the answer key and response sheets are likely to be published in July. The final results are tentatively expected during the fourth week of July 2026, although the agency has not yet announced an official date.

The results will determine eligibility for Assistant Professor appointments, Junior Research Fellowship awards and admission opportunities in Ph.D. programmes.

Candidates Advised to Stay Updated

As the examination approaches, officials have urged candidates to download their admit cards well in advance and verify personal details, examination centre information and reporting instructions.

Aspirants are also advised to carry valid identification documents and follow examination-day guidelines issued by the NTA to avoid last-minute inconvenience.

With preparations entering the final phase, universities and coaching institutes across the country are witnessing heightened activity as candidates gear up for one of India's most significant higher education eligibility examinations.

The Centre has ordered a temporary ban on access to Telegram in India until June 22 and directed the platform to disable its message‑edit feature in the country until June 30, officials said on Tuesday. The move comes days before the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET‑UG) re‑examination on June 21, which was called after a paper‑leak controversy.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) said the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) issued the order under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000. According to the NTA, the edit facility on Telegram was being misused to create forged evidence of paper leaks — users were editing old messages to insert question papers or PDFs and later claiming that leaks had occurred before exams.

“The step aims to curb circulation of fabricated evidence and ensure fairness of the re‑examination,” an NTA statement said, adding that the restriction on Telegram’s access will remain in effect through June 22 and the edit feature will be disabled until June 30. The agency acknowledged the inconvenience to ordinary users but called the measures “necessary” for exam integrity.

The NTA said it had exhausted other options before the ban, including requests to remove objectionable content and coordination with law‑enforcement agencies. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), working with police teams in Bihar, Gujarat and Rajasthan, has already taken action against several Telegram channels, groups and bots linked to exam malpractice and extortion.

Investigations have revealed organised activity on channels using names such as “Paper Leaked NEET”, “Re‑NEET 2026”, “Private Mafia” and variations claiming to supply papers. The Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch has detained members of an interstate cyber‑fraud gang, and the probe has reportedly uncovered around eight Telegram channels, roughly 1.5 crore rupees in transactions and about 1,000 mobile numbers connected to the operation.

The NTA warned students against trusting unverified information on social media and urged them to rely only on official sources: the NEET portal (neet.nta.nic.in) and NTA’s verified handles. “Information related to the exam should only be taken from official channels,” the agency said.

The ban is narrowly timed to cover the re‑exam period; access will be restored after June 22, the NTA added. The temporary disabling of message editing will remain longer to prevent retrospective manipulation of threads that could be used to manufacture false evidence.

Separately, the NTA has altered the NEET‑UG re‑exam format. The duration has been extended from 180 minutes to 195 minutes, and additional space for rough work has been provided on the answer sheet, the agency confirmed. These changes come as part of efforts to accommodate logistics and ensure students are not disadvantaged.

Student groups and legal experts said they expect pushback from users and civil‑liberties advocates over a country‑wide block of an app used by millions. Some noted that blocking platforms is a blunt tool, while others accepted targeted restrictions if backed by clear evidence of criminal misuse. The government has framed the action as a limited, evidence‑driven intervention aimed at preventing large‑scale fraud that could again derail a national exam.

Law‑enforcement agencies are continuing investigations into alleged extortion and paper‑leak networks. The I4C and state police units have been asked to follow leads and identify financial trails, administrators said. Meanwhile, the NTA reiterated that students should avoid rumours and check only official updates about exam timing, centres and protocols.

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.

Panel presses NTA to strengthen exam security ahead of NEET re-exam on June 21; China’s Gaokao model and US practices discussed.

A parliamentary committee on Wednesday asked the National Testing Agency (NTA) to study examination systems in countries such as China and the United States and recommend measures to tighten security ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for June 21, officials said. The meeting came amid continuing investigations into the May 3 paper leak that led to the cancellation of the exam.

Officials before panel
NTA Director General Abhishek Singh and National Medical Commission (NMC) President Abhijat Sheth appeared before the standing committee for a third time to brief members on steps taken since irregularities surfaced on the evening of May 7, according to sources familiar with the matter. The two officials outlined logistical preparations for the pen-and-paper re-test and assurance measures being strengthened at centres across 551 Indian cities and 14 foreign centres.

Gaokao example cited
Members of the committee suggested looking at international best practices, pointing to the Chinese Gaokao and testing protocols in the United States as possible models. China’s spokesperson in India, Yu Jing, posted a video on X this week describing the Gaokao as a two-day nationwide examination for about 1.3 crore students, where some cities temporarily halt factories and traffic to prioritise examinees. Committee members said such coordination and nationwide commitment were worth studying for lessons on scale and enforcement.

Calls for systemic change
Lawmakers pressed for durable reforms to restore public confidence in the NTA after the controversy. Suggestions included tighter invigilation, strengthened chain-of-custody for answer sheets and question papers, biometric verification at centres, and real-time monitoring of exam halls. Several members reiterated past proposals to offer NEET multiple times a year — two to three sessions — so candidates are not unduly penalised by a single compromised sitting.

Context on multiple sessions
NEET-UG has traditionally been held once a year in a single session, with about 23 lakh candidates appearing in 2026. The idea of conducting NEET multiple times has resurfaced repeatedly; a 2018 government announcement proposed twice-yearly tests for JEE and NEET but was not implemented. NMC officials told the committee that a shift to multiple sessions would require changes to the counselling framework for over 1 lakh MBBS seats and would need legislative or policy adjustments to prevent vacant seats and logistical clashes.

Investigation and arrests
Investigators from the Central Bureau of Investigation have so far arrested 13 people in connection with the alleged paper leak. The NTA said irregularities were first flagged on May 7 and the matter was referred to central agencies. The May 12 cancellation and the June 21 re-exam date followed recommendations from the Education Ministry and probe agencies to ensure fairness for aspirants.

Student stress and welfare
Committee members also raised concerns about student welfare after reports of suicides linked to exam stress. They urged the government to provide support to grieving families and expand counselling services for candidates. “Reducing pressure on students and ensuring transparent processes were emphasised,” an official present at the briefing said on condition of anonymity.

Ground realities ahead
On the ground, centres have been finalising seating plans and security checks in the past fortnight, and state education departments have been asked to coordinate local law enforcement. With around 23 lakh aspirants expected to contest the re-test, officials acknowledge the logistical challenge but say the priority is to deliver a secure and credible exam.

What’s next
The committee asked the NTA to prepare a comparative note on testing models in China and the US, highlighting practices that can be adapted within India’s legal and administrative framework. The NTA has been asked to file a report before the panel ahead of a follow-up hearing later this month, officials said. Meanwhile, the CBI investigation into the leak continues and the agency is expected to submit periodic updates to the committee.

A fresh political storm has emerged over the NEET-UG examination as senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding a comprehensive white paper on alleged irregularities and paper leak incidents in exams conducted by the National Testing Agency. The demand comes amid continued scrutiny of the NEET-UG process and rising concerns among students.

The issue relates to the NEET-UG 2026 examination conducted by the National Testing Agency on May 3, which was later cancelled on May 12 following allegations of a paper leak. The matter is currently under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation, intensifying national debate on exam transparency and system accountability.

White paper demand on NTA exams

In his letter to the Prime Minister, Digvijaya Singh has urged the government to publish a detailed white paper covering reported irregularities in examinations conducted by the National Testing Agency over the past eight years. He has also sought clarity on the action taken in each case.

Singh, who chairs the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports, stated that repeated concerns over exam integrity are undermining student confidence in the examination system. He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in high-stakes national exams.

NEET-UG cancellation and probe

The NEET-UG 2026 examination, held on May 3, was cancelled on May 12 after allegations of question paper leaks surfaced in multiple regions. The case was subsequently handed over to the CBI for investigation.

Officials have not yet released a final report on the scale or source of the alleged leak. However, the cancellation has triggered widespread concern among lakhs of medical aspirants across the country, many of whom are now awaiting clarity on future steps.

Student concerns and system trust

The controversy has once again brought the credibility of national entrance examinations under focus. Education experts note that repeated allegations of irregularities in competitive exams can significantly impact student morale and trust in recruitment systems.

Singh argued that at a time when students face immense academic pressure, it is essential to restore confidence through transparent disclosures and systematic reforms in examination processes.

Background of repeated concerns

In recent years, the National Testing Agency has faced multiple allegations related to exam conduct, including concerns over technical glitches, logistical errors, and suspected leaks. These issues have led to legal challenges and policy-level discussions on examination reforms.

The NEET-UG exam, in particular, has frequently been at the centre of public debate due to its large-scale participation and high stakes for medical admissions across India.

Official response and legal angle

While the matter is under investigation, the Supreme Court has also previously declined pleas seeking a re-test in computer-based mode, adding a judicial dimension to the ongoing controversy.

Authorities have maintained that due process is being followed and that corrective action will be taken based on investigation findings. The CBI probe is expected to determine the extent of the alleged irregularities.

Agency tells Supreme Court it has ordered CCTV audits, forensic reviews and new posts for 2026 re-exam as part of wider reforms

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has told the Supreme Court it has launched a package of structural and security reforms after the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, saying CCTV audits, mock drills, forensic checks and new senior posts have been introduced ahead of the re-examination.

According to the affidavit filed in court on Friday, a High-Powered Steering Committee (HPSC) reviewed NEET-UG preparations at a meeting on April 17 and recommended a suite of measures to plug gaps before, during and after the test. The NTA said many of the recommendations are already in place or at an advanced stage of implementation for the re-exam scheduled later this year.

Tighter centre-level checks

The reforms include mandatory CCTV checks at all examination centres, with footage to be preserved for at least 90 days. The agency has also ordered detailed physical inspections of centres in the week leading up to exams, verification of power-backup systems and weather-based contingency plans, the affidavit said.

“Initial reports indicate the focus is on strengthening real-time monitoring and post-event forensic review,” a source familiar with the matter said, on condition of anonymity. The NTA also said emergency medical facilities will be required at identified larger centres, and that mock drills will be carried out to test readiness.

Forensic and post-exam reviews

In a notable change, the HPSC recommended routine forensic analysis of CCTV footage after examinations to identify anomalies or suspicious conduct that may not be apparent during live monitoring. The affidavit states the committee will reconvene after the re-examination to decide, in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, whether future NEET tests should move to a computer-based test (CBT) format or remain paper-and-pen (PPT).

Officials said the forensic audits aim to catch patterns — such as repeated camera blind spots, simultaneous irregular behaviour across centres or suspicious movement near exam halls — that would otherwise surface only after complaints. “These are additional layers of checks intended to create both deterrence and investigative capability,” an NTA official involved in operations told reporters.

Administrative restructuring

As part of broader governance reforms, the NTA has created 16 senior posts, adding director and joint-director level positions, and appointed two joint secretary-level officers as additional director generals to oversee technology operations and test security. A secretary-level officer assumed charge as director general of the NTA in March 2026, the affidavit added.

The agency said it has brought in experts from academic and administrative bodies — including IITs, the University Grants Commission (UGC), CBSE, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) and IGNOU — to strengthen examination management and technical resilience.

State and district coordination

To tighten on-ground coordination, State-Level Coordination Committees (SLCCs) and District-Level Coordination Committees (DLCCs) were formed across the country. The NTA told the court that 18 SLCCs and 621 DLCCs were operational before the May 3 exam and comprise officials from local administration, police, intelligence agencies, the National Informatics Centre (NIC) and the testing agency.

The committees are intended to improve surveillance, logistics and rapid response during examinations, the NTA said. Local police and district administrations will oversee centre security while NIC teams assist with technical links and timely transfer of CCTV data.

Public reaction and significance

The NEET-UG 2026 leak and subsequent cancellation sparked widespread public concern and legal scrutiny, prompting petitions by groups including the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) and the United Doctors Front (UDF) seeking a structural overhaul of the examination body. Petitioners had argued that systemic lapses, not isolated incidents, were to blame.

Education experts said the NTA’s moves are aimed at restoring confidence but warned implementation will be key. “Policy changes matter only if executed consistently across thousands of centres,” said an education administrator who declined to be named. “Mock drills, forensic audits and state coordination can help, but transparency about findings will be crucial.”

What’s next

The HPSC is due to meet again after the re-examination to assess the effectiveness of the measures and recommend whether a permanent shift to a CBT model is warranted. The Supreme Court will continue to monitor progress through affidavits and hearings, according to registry filings.

With the re-exam looming, the NTA faces the twin task of demonstrating operational readiness on the ground and convincing students and stakeholders that the safeguards will prevent a repeat of the disruption that upended this year’s admission cycle.