The National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination following widespread allegations of a paper leak and significant irregularities. This decision, made with the approval of the Government of India, aims to preserve trust in the national examination system, according to an NTA statement. However, the cancellation has ignited a wave of protests across the country, with student organizations demanding accountability and reform.
Student groups, notably the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) and the Students' Federation of India (SFI), have been at the forefront of these demonstrations. Protesters cite the cancellation as definitive proof of large-scale lapses and irregularities in the NEET examination process. They argue that repeated controversies surrounding the exam have eroded students' confidence in the entire system.
Protests Mount in Major Cities
In Kozhikode, SFI activists marched towards the Income Tax office on Wednesday, May 13th, disrupting traffic and leading to a brief confrontation with police as some attempted to breach barricades. While no serious injuries were reported, the situation remained tense.
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Meanwhile, New Delhi saw significant demonstrations. NSUI members gathered outside Shastri Bhawan, holding placards with slogans like 'PM compromised, paper compromised' and 'doctor ki degree bikao hain' (doctor's degree is for sale). The protests have intensified calls for transparency and accountability from the NTA.
Demands for Accountability and Reform
NSUI leaders have accused the central government of repeatedly failing to safeguard the futures of aspiring students. NSUI National President Vinod Jakhar specifically called for the immediate resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and advocated for a complete ban on the NTA, citing its alleged repeated failures in conducting credible examinations.
The organizations are demanding:
Strict action against all individuals involved in the alleged scam.
Stronger mechanisms for technical security and confidentiality of question papers.
Enhanced monitoring of examination centers.
Institutional accountability for national-level examinations.
Underlying Concerns
The controversy has revived critical questions about the credibility of competitive examinations in India and the accountability of the NTA. Some reports suggest that a substantial portion of the total marks, possibly around 600 out of 720, may have been compromised, with claims that up to 15 out of 180 questions were circulated in advance.
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Students describe immense pressure and sacrifice involved in preparing for the NEET exam, with personal lives put on hold for coaching classes and mock tests. The alleged paper leak and subsequent cancellation have amplified their frustration and sense of betrayal.
The NEET UG exam was initially held on May 3rd. The NTA stated that the reconducted examination dates will be announced separately.
