NTA Cancels NEET-UG 2026 Exam, Announces Retest; CBI to Probe

New Delhi (IANS): The National Testing Agency (NTA) on Tuesday cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 examination held on May 3. Citing the need to maintain “transparency and credibility,” the agency announced that the medical entrance exam will be re-conducted, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) now taking over the probe into alleged irregularities.

Integrity of Exam Process Compromised

The NTA confirmed via an official statement on X (formerly Twitter) that investigative findings from central agencies and law enforcement established that the current examination process “could not be allowed to stand.” While the agency acknowledged the significant inconvenience to millions of aspirants, it maintained that the alternative would cause lasting damage to the public’s trust in the national examination system.

Key highlights of the announcement include:

• CBI Inquiry: The Government of India has referred the matter to the CBI for a comprehensive investigation into the suspected paper leak and procedural lapses.
• Retest Scheduled: New dates for the examination and the schedule for reissued admit cards will be notified shortly through official channels.
• No Fresh Fees: Candidates will not need to re-register or pay additional fees. The registration data and chosen exam centres from the May cycle remain valid.
• Fee Refund: In an unusual move, the NTA stated that the initial examination fees paid by candidates would be refunded, with the re-test funded through the agency’s internal resources.

The Rajasthan Paper Leak Link

The cancellation follows alarming reports from the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG), which had been investigating a potential paper leak in the state. Investigators reportedly recovered a handwritten document containing approximately 120 questions—including 90 in Biology and 30 in Chemistry—that allegedly matched the actual NEET-UG question paper used on May 3.

Warning Against Misinformation

The NTA has urged students and parents to rely solely on official communications and disregard unverified reports circulating on social media. “NTA will extend full cooperation to the Bureau [CBI] and provide all materials, records, and assistance required,” the agency added.