44 cyber commandos for NEET re-test: Inside MP's multi-layer security strategy

Madhya Pradesh has rolled out a multi-layered security plan for the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination on June 21. The arrangements combine Air Force transport, CRPF escort and cyber surveillance to prevent any paper leak.

In Short

• The re-examination will be held on June 21 across 283 centres
• Thirty districts are involved, with Bhopal hosting 32 centres for candidates
• A total of 13,724 candidates are scheduled to appear in Bhopal

The countdown to the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination has begun, and in Madhya Pradesh, preparations extend far beyond examination halls. Determined to avoid a repeat of last year's paper leak controversy, authorities have rolled out an extensive security plan that combines physical protection with round-the-clock digital surveillance.

Across the state, the re-exam will be conducted at 283 centres in 30 districts, while 32 centres in Bhopal alone will accommodate 13,724 candidates.

The National Testing Agency (NTA), state administration, police and central security forces are working together to ensure the examination is conducted fairly and securely.

FROM THE SKY TO THE STRONG ROOM

Security begins even before the question papers reach examination centres.

The papers are being transported using Indian Air Force aircraft, while the exact storage locations are being kept confidential. From the strong rooms, the papers will be escorted to examination centres by the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) under tight security.

Meanwhile, CCTV cameras, metal detectors, clocks and canopies have already been installed at centres in Bhopal to strengthen on-ground monitoring.

THE DIGITAL BATTLE BEGINS

The biggest focus this year is the online space, where authorities believe attempts to circulate fake papers or leaked material are most likely to emerge.

To tackle this, the Madhya Pradesh Police Cyber Cell has deployed 44 specially trained cyber commandos across the state. They will monitor social media platforms, websites and even suspicious activity on the deep web throughout the examination period.

Explaining the preparations, Cyber Cell Superintendent of Police Pranay Nagamanshi said: "We have assigned our cyber commandos across the state. Their job will be to keep an eye on the deep web and the digital world in every possible way."

He added that if suspicious content is detected, officials will immediately initiate action to have it removed through designated cyber portals.

A CHALLENGE, BUT A PREPARED TEAM

Nagamanshi admitted that monitoring online activity during a national examination is not easy. "Definitely this is a difficult task, but Cyber Commandos have been trained for this. We hope they will stand up to their training and ensure no such incident takes place."

Apart from cyber surveillance, local police, the CRPF and NTA officials will jointly oversee examination centres throughout the state.

The multi-layered security plan reflects the authorities' determination to restore confidence in one of India's biggest entrance examinations by ensuring that the re-test is conducted without disruption or controversy.

- Ends