Paper Leak Probe To Nationwide Re-Test: Tracking The NEET-UG 2026 Timeline In 7 Points

Last Updated:June 21, 2026, 12:53 IST

Over 22 lakh students are taking the NEET-UG 2026 re-exam amid unprecedented security after the original test was scrapped over alleged paper leak allegations.

The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET)-UG 2026 is being conducted afresh on Sunday under unprecedented security arrangements after the original examination was scrapped amid allegations of a paper leak and concerns over the integrity of the medical entrance process.

More than 22 lakh candidates are appearing for the re-examination across thousands of centres in India and abroad, with authorities deploying extensive security and logistical measures to ensure a smooth and fair test.

The re-test marks the culmination of weeks of controversy, investigations and administrative action that followed allegations that the question paper had been leaked before the original examination held on May 3.

The Centre subsequently ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which has made several arrests as part of its ongoing inquiry.

As students headed to examination centres on Sunday, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged candidates to take the exam “fearlessly and free of anxiety", while appealing to all stakeholders not to do anything that could affect students’ mental health.

Authorities across states tightened security, arranged transport facilities and put in place crowd-management measures to prevent any disruption.

THE NEET-UG 2026 CONTROVERSY: TIMELINE IN 7 POINTS

• May 3 – Original NEET-UG 2026 Exam Conducted: The nationwide medical entrance examination was held for lakhs of aspirants seeking admission to undergraduate medical courses. Soon after the test, allegations emerged that the question paper had been leaked before the examination.
• Paper Leak Claims Trigger Outrage: Complaints and allegations from students, parents and coaching circles led to widespread scrutiny of the examination process. Questions were raised about the sanctity of one of India’s largest entrance examinations.
• Government Orders Investigation: Amid mounting pressure and demands for accountability, the Union government ordered a comprehensive investigation into the alleged leak. The matter was handed over to the CBI for a detailed probe.
• CBI Begins Probe, Arrests Follow: The central agency launched its investigation into the alleged irregularities. Several arrests were made as part of the probe into the suspected paper leak network.
• NTA Cancels Original Examination: Following the controversy, the National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled the May 3 examination. The decision was aimed at preserving fairness and ensuring that all candidates received an equal opportunity. News agency PTI reported that the exam was scrapped amid allegations of a paper leak.
• Fresh Examination Announced: The NTA subsequently announced a nationwide re-examination. Authorities began coordinating with state governments, district administrations and law enforcement agencies to prevent any recurrence of irregularities.
• June 21: Re-Exam Held Under Tight Security: The fresh NEET-UG examination is being conducted from 2 pm to 5.15 pm at 5,440 centres across 551 Indian cities and 14 overseas centres. Security personnel have been deployed at venues, examination materials are being transported under strict supervision, and candidates are undergoing extensive verification checks before entry.

MASSIVE SECURITY AND LOGISTICAL ARRANGEMENTS

Authorities across the country have implemented extraordinary measures for the retest.

In Delhi, additional police personnel have been deployed at examination centres, with strict screening at entry points and arrangements for crowd control.

Special waiting zones, drinking water facilities and cooling areas have also been set up for parents and guardians.

Several states have reported enhanced surveillance and security protocols.

In Indore, police divided the city into multiple zones for monitoring examination-related movement, while in Mangaluru, question papers were transported under security escort.

In Mumbai, the BEST undertaking arranged special bus services and nearly 180 trips to help candidates reach examination centres despite an ongoing transport strike.

The re-examination is being closely watched as a crucial test of the authorities’ ability to restore confidence in India’s premier medical entrance examination.

For lakhs of aspirants, Sunday’s test represents a second chance after weeks of uncertainty and controversy.

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said he had full faith in the NTA, state governments, district administrations and the education fraternity, expressing hope that students would be able to focus on the examination without fear.

About the Author

Vani Mehrotra

Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has more than 10 years of experience in national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

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