The National Testing Agency cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 exam on May 12, 2026, following an alleged leak of the test papers [1], [2].
The decision affects thousands of medical aspirants nationwide and raises critical questions about the integrity of India's high-stakes entrance examinations. The cancellation follows reports of widespread irregularities and has sparked protests in Delhi [2], [3].
The original exam was conducted on May 3, 2026 [3]. The NTA announced the cancellation after receiving inputs from central investigative agencies and other law-enforcement bodies regarding the breach [1], [4].
"We have decided to cancel the exam and will conduct a fresh test," an NTA spokesperson said [1].
The agency is now working to establish a new timeline for the re-test. The NTA chief said the re-exam date will be announced in the next seven to 10 days [4].
Parallel to the administrative response, the Central Bureau of Investigation has stepped in to lead the criminal probe. A CBI official said the agency has registered an FIR and will probe the alleged paper leak [5]. This investigation seeks to identify the source of the leak, and those who may have profited from the breach.
The NTA and CBI are coordinating to ensure the security of the upcoming test. The agency has not yet released the specific dates for the new examination, but they are expected by late May or early June [4].
“"We have decided to cancel the exam and will conduct a fresh test,"”
The cancellation of a nationwide medical entrance exam highlights systemic vulnerabilities in India's standardized testing infrastructure. By involving the CBI, the government is treating the leak as a serious criminal offense rather than a mere administrative lapse, signaling a move toward stricter deterrence against exam fraud.
