NEET UG Exam Cancelled After Rajasthan Paper Leak, CBI Investigation Ordered

The NEET UG 2026 examination has been officially cancelled after allegations of a suspected question paper leak triggered a major review of the national testing system. The National Testing Agency confirmed the decision after receiving inputs from central agencies that flagged possible irregularities in the exam conducted on May 3. With around 22 lakh aspirants affected, the government has ordered a fresh examination along with a detailed investigation to ensure fairness and restore public trust.

NEET UG 2026 Cancellation Amid Integrity Concerns

The cancellation followed a detailed assessment of reports suggesting that the examination process may have been compromised. Authorities stated that the integrity of the exam could not be guaranteed under the current circumstances. As a result, the decision was taken to annul the test entirely and conduct it again under stricter monitoring. The move highlights the importance of maintaining transparency in high-stakes competitive examinations that determine medical admissions across the country.

Massive Impact On Lakhs Of Aspirants

The decision has affected nearly 22 lakh candidates, making NEET UG 2026 one of the most disrupted entrance exams in recent years. Students who had been preparing for months now face uncertainty as they prepare for a re-examination. While the cancellation aims to ensure fairness, it has also increased academic pressure and emotional stress for aspirants across India, many of whom were expecting results in the coming weeks.

CBI Takes Over Investigation Into Alleged Leak

The case has now been handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation for a detailed inquiry. The agency will examine how the alleged “guess paper” circulated before the examination and whether organised malpractice played a role. Initial findings suggest that a handwritten version of the question paper may have been leaked, possibly during the printing stage. Authorities have also detained several individuals in connection with the case as part of the ongoing probe.

Re-Examination Plan And Candidate Guidelines

The National Testing Agency has confirmed that NEET UG 2026 will be conducted again, with fresh dates to be announced shortly through official channels. Candidates will not need to register again, as their existing applications will remain valid. Examination centres are expected to remain unchanged, and no additional fee will be charged. Students who have already paid will receive refunds, while new admit cards will be issued ahead of the re-test.

Efforts To Restore Trust In Examination System

The cancellation has once again brought attention to exam security and fairness in India’s competitive testing framework. Authorities have stated that allowing a compromised examination to continue would have caused long-term damage to credibility. By ordering a CBI probe and announcing a re-exam, the system aims to rebuild confidence among students while strengthening safeguards against future malpractice.

For now, candidates are advised to stay updated only through official announcements as the investigation progresses and new exam dates are finalised.