A massive protest erupted near Shastri Bhawan in New Delhi on Tuesday, organized by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), following the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2026 examination by the National Testing Agency (NTA) amid allegations of a paper leak. Heavy police forces have been deployed in key areas across the capital to manage the situation.
Student Outrage and Demands
Vinod Jakhar, the National President of NSUI, voiced the anger and frustration of students. "Students from every corner of the nation are out on the streets. NEET aspirants are out on the streets. Where is the government? Today, the future of those who prepared for the NEET examination with utmost diligence and integrity has been sold off," he said.
Jakhar demanded strict action against the culprits, saying, "I demand that the government take the strictest possible action against the culprits and ensure that anyone involved in this conspiracy receives severe punishment. Certain individuals of the government and the administration are involved in this matter. The government, specifically, Dharmendra Pradhan, must accept accountability for this failure and should tender his resignation."
He further added, "Our primary demand is that the National Testing Agency (NTA) be banned. We demand that the investigation be conducted under the supervision of the Supreme Court. This is because we have no faith in the government."
Background of the Controversy
The NEET-UG 2026 examination was conducted on May 3. Shortly after, allegations of a paper leak surfaced, prompting investigations by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) as well as central agencies. The NTA, in a statement, announced the cancellation of the exam, stating that the decision was taken with the approval of the Government of India in the interest of maintaining transparency and preserving trust in the national examination system.
The agency said, "On the basis of inputs subsequently examined by NTA in coordination with central agencies, and the investigative findings shared by the law enforcement agencies, the National Testing Agency, with the approval of the Government of India, has decided to cancel the NEET (UG) 2026 examination conducted on 3 May 2026, and to re-conduct the examination on dates that will be notified separately."
Re-examination and CBI Investigation
The NTA confirmed that the inputs received, along with findings shared by law enforcement agencies, established that the "present examination process could not be allowed to stand." The re-conducted examination dates, along with the re-issued admit-card schedule, will be communicated through official channels in the coming days.
Furthermore, the government has decided to refer the matter to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a comprehensive inquiry into the allegations linked to the examination. The NTA stated, "NTA will extend full cooperation to the Bureau and will provide all materials, records, and assistance the inquiry requires."
