NEET UG 2026 Cancelled Amid Paper Leak Row; NTA to Re-Conduct Exam, CBI Probe Ordered

In a major development affecting over 22 lakh medical aspirants, the National Testing Agency has officially cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3, 2026, following allegations of a paper leak currently under investigation.

The agency announced that the examination will now be re-conducted on fresh dates, which will be notified separately through official channels.

NEET UG 2026 Cancellation: Key Highlights

Why Was NEET UG 2026 Cancelled?

According to the NTA, inputs regarding a PDF file allegedly containing exam-related content were received on May 7. The agency stated that it coordinated with central investigative agencies to verify whether the document had circulated before the examination.

Following findings shared by law enforcement authorities, the agency concluded that the integrity of the examination process had been compromised.

“The present examination process could not be allowed to stand,” the NTA said in its official statement.

CBI Inquiry Ordered in NEET Paper Leak Case

The Central Government has referred the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation for a detailed inquiry into the alleged NEET UG paper leak.

The NTA stated that it will provide:

• All records and materials
• Candidate data
• Examination-related documents
• Full cooperation to investigating agencies

NEET UG 2026 Re-Exam Details

Candidates who already registered for NEET UG 2026 will not need to apply again.

Will Students Get Refunds?

Yes. The NTA has confirmed that:

• Examination fees already paid will be refunded
• The re-conducted exam will be organised using NTA’s internal resources

Official Advisory for Candidates

Candidates and parents have been advised to:

• Avoid misinformation circulating online
• Follow only official NTA updates
• Wait for revised exam schedule and admit card notifications

The agency stated that all future announcements will be released through official communication channels.

Political Reactions Intensify

The alleged paper leak has also triggered political reactions. Congress leaders including Rahul Gandhi criticised the government over the controversy, raising concerns regarding examination transparency and student trust.