NEET-UG 2026 Cancelled; CBI to Probe Alleged Irregularities

NEW DELHI, May 12: The National Testing Agency (NTA) on Tuesday cancelled the NEET (UG) 2026 examination held on May 3, announcing that the test will be re-conducted on dates to be notified later, while the government has ordered a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

The NTA said the decision was taken to ensure transparency and maintain public trust in the national examination system, following inputs and findings shared by law enforcement agencies indicating that the integrity of the exam process may have been compromised.

“On the basis of inputs examined by NTA in coordination with central agencies, and investigative findings shared by law enforcement agencies, the National Testing Agency, with the approval of the Government of India, has decided to cancel NEET (UG) 2026 conducted on May 3 and to re-conduct the examination,” the agency said in a statement.

It added that the fresh examination schedule and issuance of new admit cards will be announced through official channels in the coming days.

The government has referred the matter to the CBI for a comprehensive inquiry into the allegations, with the NTA assuring full cooperation, including sharing of all records and materials required for the investigation.

NEET (UG), conducted by the NTA, is the gateway for admission to undergraduate medical courses across the country.

Earlier, the agency had stated that the May 3 examination was conducted under strict security measures, including GPS-tracked transportation of question papers with traceable watermark identifiers and AI-assisted CCTV monitoring of centres from a central control room.

However, inputs regarding alleged malpractice were received on May 7 and forwarded to central agencies the following day for independent verification. The NTA said subsequent action, including detentions reported in the media, reflected timely intervention by investigating authorities. (Agencies)