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New Delhi: The Central Government on Tuesday cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3 after serious allegations related to paper leaks and irregularities surfaced from multiple states. The decision has impacted more than 20 lakh students who appeared in the country’s biggest undergraduate medical entrance examination.
The announcement was made through an official statement issued by the National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the NEET examination for admission to MBBS, BDS and other medical courses across India.
According to the statement, the decision was taken after inputs were examined in coordination with central agencies and findings shared by law enforcement authorities raised concerns about the integrity and transparency of the examination process.
The Government has also referred the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a detailed probe into the allegations. Officials said the agency will investigate claims related to question paper leaks, unfair practices and possible involvement of organized networks.
Sources said the decision was taken to maintain public confidence in the examination system and ensure that deserving candidates are not affected by irregularities.
The move comes amid growing criticism and protests by students and parents demanding a fair and transparent examination process.
In its official statement, the NTA said the examination will now be conducted again on dates that will be notified separately. Revised schedules regarding the fresh examination and admit cards are expected to be released soon through official channels.
“On the basis of the inputs subsequently examined by NTA in coordination with the central agencies, and the investigative findings shared by the law enforcement agencies, the National Testing Agency, with the approval of the Government of India, has decided to cancel the NEET (UG) 2026 examination conducted on 3 May 2026,” the statement said.
The agency also appealed to candidates and parents to rely only on official updates and avoid rumours circulating on social media platforms.
Following the cancellation announcement, uncertainty and anxiety have increased among NEET aspirants across the country. Many students expressed concern over the delay in the admission process and the additional pressure of preparing again for the examination.
Education experts believe the re-examination is likely to be conducted under tighter security measures to avoid any further controversy.
