Ahmedabad: While authorities have temporarily banned Telegram ahead of NEET over concerns regarding paper leaks, fraudsters appear to have moved to alternative digital platforms to continue targeting students.
Investigators and whistleblowers tracking NEET-related online activity have found that several groups that were previously active on Telegram have begun redirecting users to WhatsApp channels, where claims of access to exam papers and insider information continue to circulate.
Instagram Video Raises Concerns
The development comes amid concerns over a video circulating on Instagram that purportedly shows the question paper for the NEET 2026 re-exam. The video shows a sealed packet, a question paper, four rough-work sheets and details of a revised exam duration. There has been no official confirmation so far regarding the authenticity of the material shown in the video.
Activist Seeks Probe
Shubham Thakar, an activist, said the circulation of such content could create panic and confusion among lakhs of students awaiting clarity on the exam process. Thakar has submitted screenshots, video links and related material to the Central Bureau of Investigation and the National Investigation Agency, seeking an independent probe into the matter. The complainant said the submission should not be treated as an endorsement or authentication of the paper leak claims, but as an effort to ensure a thorough investigation and protect candidates from misinformation.
A request has also been made to the National Testing Agency (NTA) to verify the authenticity of the material and issue a clarification, Thakar said.
Telegram Group Redirects to WhatsApp
Concerns have also been raised over a message allegedly posted on June 16 by a Telegram group named "PRIVATE MAFIYA RE NEET LEAK." Screenshots show the group claiming, "TELEGRAM BAN HO JAYEGA WHAT'S APP JOIN KRLO RE NEET PPR MILEGA (Telegram will get banned; join Whatsapp for NEET re-exam paper)," while urging users to join a WhatsApp channel. The timing of the message has attracted attention, as reports of government action against Telegram surfaced the same day.
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