New Delhi: In a major development that has sent shockwaves across the country, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3 following allegations of paper leaks, examination irregularities, and widespread protests by students and political organisations. The medical entrance examination, which is considered one of the most competitive tests in India, will now be conducted again on fresh dates that will be announced separately.
The decision was taken with the approval of the Government of India after inputs examined in coordination with central agencies and investigative findings shared by law enforcement authorities. The NTA confirmed the cancellation through an official statement issued in continuation of its earlier communication dated May 10.
According to the agency, the matter had been referred to central agencies on May 8 for independent verification and necessary action to ensure the fairness and credibility of the examination process. Following a review of the evidence and findings, authorities concluded that the integrity of the examination had been compromised.
“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 cancellation triggered strong reactions from students and political groups. Members of the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) staged protests in Delhi, accusing the government of failing to protect the integrity of national examinations and demanding accountability from authorities responsible for conducting the test.
The Centre has also decided to transfer the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged paper leak and related irregularities. The NTA stated that it would fully cooperate with the investigation and provide all necessary records and assistance to the agency.
Despite acknowledging the inconvenience caused to lakhs of aspirants and their families, the NTA maintained that the decision was essential to preserve public trust in the examination system. The agency clarified that candidates who had registered for the May 2026 examination would not need to apply again. Existing registration details, candidature information, and examination centre preferences will automatically be carried forward to the re-conducted examination.
Additionally, the NTA announced that no extra examination fee would be charged for the fresh test and that fees already paid by candidates would be refunded. The re-examination will be conducted using the agency’s internal resources.
Students and parents have been advised to rely only on official announcements for updates regarding revised examination dates, admit cards, and other important instructions, while avoiding misinformation circulating on social media platforms.
