NEET UG 2026 Exam Cancelled Amid Rajasthan Paper Leak Row, 120 Questions Reportedly Matched; CBI Takes Over

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination after serious allegations of a paper leak emerged from different parts of the country, especially Rajasthan.

The decision has created panic and disappointment among lakhs of medical aspirants who appeared for the exam earlier this month.

The Central Government has now handed over the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a detailed probe. The authorities say the move has been taken to maintain transparency and restore trust in the examination system.

In continuation of its press release dated 10 May 2026, the National Testing Agency wishes to inform candidates, parents, and members of the public of the following decisions taken in respect of NEET (UG) 2026. NTA had, on 8 May 2026, referred the matters then under consideration…

— National Testing Agency (@NTA_Exams) May 12, 2026

NTA Announces Cancellation of NEET UG 2026

In an official statement shared on X, the NTA said it had already referred the matter to central agencies on May 8, 2026, for independent verification and necessary action.

The agency stated that after reviewing the findings shared by investigative agencies and examining various inputs, it decided to cancel the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3, 2026. The decision was approved by the Government of India.

The NTA said the step was necessary to ensure fairness, transparency, and credibility in the national-level medical entrance examination.

The agency also confirmed that the examination will be conducted again. Fresh dates for the re-exam will be announced separately.

What Triggered the Controversy?

The controversy began after reports of a possible paper leak surfaced from Rajasthan. Soon after the allegations emerged, the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) launched an investigation into the matter.

According to reports, investigators recovered a handwritten "suggestion paper" that reportedly matched several questions from the actual NEET examination.

Sources claimed that nearly 120 questions were similar to the original paper, including around 90 Biology questions and 30 Chemistry questions. This raised major concerns about the integrity of the exam process.

The findings intensified pressure on the NTA and the Centre, eventually leading to the cancellation of the examination.

CBI Probe Ordered

To ensure a fair and independent investigation, the Centre has now ordered a CBI probe into the alleged paper leak.

The CBI is expected to investigate:

• How the paper leak happened
• Whether any organised network was involved
• The role of coaching centres or middlemen
• Possible involvement of officials or insiders
• Distribution of leaked questions before the exam

The investigation agency may also question suspects and examine digital evidence, financial transactions, and communication records connected to the case.

Relief and Stress for Students

The cancellation of the exam has brought mixed emotions for students and parents. While many candidates welcomed the decision in the interest of fairness, others expressed frustration over having to prepare again for the highly competitive exam.

NEET is one of the toughest entrance examinations in India, and students spend years preparing for it. The cancellation means aspirants will now have to continue their preparation until the new exam dates are announced.

Several students also raised concerns about mental pressure, uncertainty, and the delay in the admission process for medical colleges.

Concerns Over Exam Security

The NEET UG 2026 controversy has once again sparked debate over the security and management of competitive examinations in India.

Experts believe stricter security measures are now needed, including:

• Better monitoring of question paper handling
• Stronger digital security systems
• More surveillance at examination centres
• Faster action on complaints and suspicious activities
• Strict punishment for those involved in paper leaks

The incident has also increased demands for reforms in the conduct of large-scale national examinations.

What Happens Next?

The NTA is expected to announce fresh dates for the NEET UG 2026 re-examination soon. Candidates have been advised to regularly check official updates and continue their preparation. Meanwhile, the CBI investigation is likely to play a crucial role in identifying those responsible for the alleged leak and preventing similar incidents in the future.

The cancellation of the exam may have caused temporary uncertainty, but authorities say the decision was necessary to protect the future of honest students and maintain the credibility of India's medical entrance system.