The Students' Islamic Organisation of India (SIO) has formally requested the National Testing Agency (NTA) to postpone the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG 2026 examinations scheduled for May 28, 2026. The organisation argues that the date coincides with Eid-ul-Adha, one of the most significant festivals in Islam, and could create substantial difficulties for candidates appearing for the national-level entrance test.
SIO Highlights Religious and Logistical Concerns
In a memorandum submitted to the NTA, the SIO emphasised that students from various parts of the country have raised concerns regarding religious observances, long-distance travel, and accessibility issues linked to the current examination schedule. The organisation demanded that the NTA announce an alternative date to ensure that students are not forced to choose between appearing for the examination and participating in an important religious festival. According to the SIO, many students are expected to travel across districts and states to reach their allotted examination centres. Conducting the examination on Eid-ul-Adha may place candidates under unnecessary logistical and emotional pressure.
Appeal for Fairness and Inclusivity
In a statement shared on social media platform X, the SIO said it had formally appealed to the NTA to reconsider the May 28 schedule in the interest of fairness, inclusivity, and accessibility for students. The organisation maintained that national examinations involving lakhs of students should be planned with greater sensitivity towards major religious occasions observed across the country. The SIO further noted that the NTA, as a responsible examination body, should ensure that no student is disadvantaged due to their religious beliefs or cultural practices.
CUET UG: A Key Entrance Examination
CUET UG has become one of India's largest entrance examinations, serving as the primary admission route for undergraduate programmes offered by central universities and several other participating institutions. Conducted by the NTA, the examination is scheduled to be held between May 11 and May 31, 2026, in computer-based mode. With more than 15 lakh registrations reported for CUET UG 2026, any scheduling issue linked to the examination calendar carries nationwide implications for students, universities, and examination authorities. The SIO's appeal underscores the need for careful planning to accommodate the diverse religious and cultural backgrounds of candidates.
No Official Response from NTA Yet
As of now, the NTA has not issued any official notification regarding the rescheduling of the May 28 examination. The CUET UG 2026 schedule available on the official portal continues to show the examination dates as originally planned. The SIO has urged the NTA to respond promptly to the concerns raised and to take necessary steps to avoid any inconvenience to students. The organisation has also called upon other student bodies and stakeholders to support its demand for a revised schedule that respects religious observances.
