The Centre has sought the support of major social media platforms, including Meta, Google and Telegram, to tackle fake paper leak rumours and misleading posts ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired a high-level meeting with representatives of these companies and reviewed examination security measures with intelligence and law enforcement agencies.
Government targets fake online networks
Officials expressed concern over the rapid spread of false claims through Telegram groups, anonymous channels and automated bots before major examinations. According to the Education Ministry, many of these groups circulate fabricated paper leak messages and unverified information that create panic among students and parents.
Authorities reportedly found that several suspicious channels were linked to a limited number of phone numbers, indicating organised online activity.
The government has now directed social media platforms to closely coordinate with the Ministry of Education, the National Testing Agency and law enforcement agencies for quick removal of misleading content.
Security measures tightened for re-NEET
The meetings come ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination announced after the cancellation of the May 3 exam following paper leak allegations.
Dharmendra Pradhan has instructed officials to strengthen surveillance, especially on encrypted messaging platforms that claim to provide advance access to exam papers or insider information.
Authorities have also been directed to coordinate with district administrations and police departments across states to ensure strict security at examination centres. Student facilities including transport, drinking water and smooth arrangements are also being monitored ahead of the re-exam.