NEET UG Re-Test Begins Across 551 Cities: Nearly 23 lakh candidates take exam under strict monitoring

With over 1.38 lakh CCTV cameras, thousands of jammers and live monitoring in place, the NEET UG 2026 re-exam has begun. Will the enhanced security restore students' trust in the examination process?

Post Published By: Donika Singh

Updated : 21 June 2026, 3:23 PM IST

NEET UG Re-Exam 2026 Begins Under Tight Security as Aspirants Hope for a Fair Test. (Image Internet)

New Delhi: The NEET-UG 2026 re-examination commenced across the country on Sunday under one of the most extensive security arrangements ever seen for a national-level entrance test. The re-test was ordered after the original examination conducted on May 3 was cancelled following allegations of a question paper leak.

The examination began at 2 pm and will conclude at 5:15 pm, including additional time provided to candidates. It is being held at 5,440 centres across 551 Indian cities and several international locations.

Massive Security Deployment Across Centres

To ensure a transparent and secure examination process, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has introduced multiple layers of monitoring and surveillance.

More than 95,000 examination rooms have been placed under CCTV coverage. Officials said over 1.38 lakh cameras are being used for real-time monitoring at national, state and ministry control centres. Additionally, more than 51,000 signal jammers have been installed to prevent electronic malpractice and unauthorised communication.

Students Notice Stricter Arrangements

Many candidates reported a visible increase in security compared to the previous examination. Several students said they underwent more thorough checks before entering centres and noticed improved monitoring systems.

Candidates also pointed out that facilities such as drinking water and cooling arrangements were better managed this time, helping students cope with the summer conditions.

Pressure Remains High After Controversy

Despite the enhanced arrangements, many aspirants acknowledged feeling anxious because of the uncertainty created by the cancellation of the earlier examination.

Students said the controversy had affected preparation schedules and added emotional pressure, particularly for those expecting competitive scores. Many expressed hope that the re-examination would be conducted smoothly and without any disputes.

Focus on Fairness and Transparency

The re-test is considered a crucial step in restoring confidence in the medical entrance examination system. With strict surveillance, technology-driven monitoring and heightened security checks, authorities aim to ensure a fair environment for all candidates competing for medical college admissions.