The cancellation of the NEET-UG 2026 medical entrance examination following allegations of a paper leak has sparked widespread protests and deep anxiety among students and parents across India.
The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the examination, announced that the May 3 test would be cancelled after preliminary findings and an ongoing investigation raised serious concerns about the integrity of the exam process.
Nearly 22.8 lakh students had appeared for the examination at over 5,000 centres nationwide.
Leak allegations trigger nationwide outrage
Reports suggest investigators suspect the alleged paper leak may have originated in Rajasthan days before the examination. Authorities are reportedly examining a “guess paper” that allegedly contained several questions matching the actual chemistry section of the test.
The case has now been transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation for further investigation.
The NTA said the cancellation decision was taken to protect students’ interests and preserve trust in the national examination system.
Students fear uncertainty and delays
The announcement has left lakhs of aspiring medical students emotionally shattered after months and years of preparation.
Many students attend intensive coaching classes alongside school studies, often sacrificing family events, social life, and personal wellbeing in pursuit of medical admissions.
Students and parents are now worried about delays in counselling, admissions, and the academic calendar, especially since fresh examination dates have not yet been announced.
Political parties target government
The controversy has intensified political attacks on the BJP-led central government.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused the government of crushing students’ dreams through alleged corruption and mismanagement. Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also criticised the handling of the examination process.
Meanwhile, the National Students’ Union of India (NSUI) staged protests in Delhi demanding accountability and the resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
The controversy has once again raised serious questions about examination security and transparency in India’s competitive entrance exam system.