'Military-Grade Security': Annamalai, BJP Clash Over NEET UG Re-Exam

A political tussle has erupted between former Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai and his former party over the Centre’s elaborate security arrangements for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination on June 21. Annamalai criticised the multi-layered measures—including CRPF and CISF escorts, AI-powered surveillance, biometric checks and PMO monitoring—arguing that they would increase stress for students rather than reassure them. He questioned whether the arrangements aligned with the National Education Policy’s goal of reducing exam pressure. BJP leaders hit back, defending the measures as necessary to ensure a leak-free examination after the original test was cancelled over an alleged paper leak. Over 22 lakh candidates are expected to appear for the retest.