NEW DELHI: Administrative and security measures have been significantly enhanced across India to facilitate a smooth, secure, and fair NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, which is scheduled for Sunday. The high-stakes medical entrance test, originally held on May 3, was canceled days later after a question paper leak came to light. Over 22 lakh candidates had appeared for the original examination.
IAF to Transport Question Papers
To prevent any recurrence of the leak, the question papers will be transported by the Indian Air Force (IAF). However, this move has drawn criticism, with detractors arguing that it highlights lapses in the government's examination security framework. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently investigating the case, and 13 individuals have been arrested for their suspected involvement in leaking the paper.
Student Suicides and NTA Actions
Reports indicate that at least 10 students have died by suicide since the cancellation of the NEET. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which has faced intense scrutiny for its failure to prevent the leak, is conducting a nationwide mock drill on the eve of the re-examination to ensure its smooth conduct. Additionally, on Friday, the Delhi High Court upheld the Centre’s temporary ban on Telegram, rejecting the messaging app’s challenge to the restriction imposed to prevent paper leaks and the spread of exam-related rumors.
Local Arrangements Across Cities
In the national capital, inspection rounds are underway to finalize arrangements at various centers, with five schools designated as exam venues. In Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, where approximately 23,000 aspirants will appear across 47 centers, adequate police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed to assist in the smooth conduct of the re-test. In Ajmer, Rajasthan, around 300 police personnel will be deployed across examination centers to ensure security. Authorities in Uttarakhand's Dehradun have imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) to maintain law and order for a peaceful and orderly conduct of the exercise.
Exam Day Advisory
The NTA has advised candidates to reach their examination centers between 11 am and 1:30 pm, noting that entry gates will close at 1:30 pm. The examination will be conducted in pen-and-paper mode from 2 pm to 5:15 pm across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad. Candidates are urged to adhere to all guidelines to ensure a smooth process.
