The Central government has cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination, conducted on May 3, following allegations of a paper leak and examination irregularities affecting over 22 lakh students across India and abroad. The National Testing Agency (NTA) announced the decision on Tuesday and said the exam will be re-conducted on dates to be notified later. The matter has been referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a comprehensive inquiry, while Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi criticised the Narendra Modi government on social media, alleging that students’ dreams have been “crushed” due to corruption and negligence in the system.
NEET UG 2026 cancelled, re-exam to be conducted
The National Testing Agency said the cancellation was decided after inputs were examined in coordination with central agencies and findings shared by law enforcement authorities raised concerns over the integrity of the examination process. The agency stated that the NEET UG 2026 exam conducted on May 3 could not be allowed to stand and would be re-conducted after fresh dates are announced.
The Government has also ordered a CBI probe into the allegations. The NTA said it will fully cooperate with the investigation and provide all required records and assistance.
Rahul Gandhi attacks government over cancellation
Following the cancellation, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi posted on X, accusing the government of failing students and allowing corruption in the examination system.
He said the dreams and hard work of more than 22 lakh students had been affected, alleging paper leaks, negligence and organised corruption. Gandhi also claimed that repeated irregularities had caused financial and emotional stress for families and students.
He further said that students who had prepared under difficult conditions were now facing uncertainty again, questioning the value of education if outcomes depend on money and connections instead of merit.
Registration data to remain valid, fees to be refunded
According to the NTA, students who had registered for the May 2026 examination will not need to apply again. Their candidature details and examination centre choices will remain valid for the re-test. The agency also confirmed that no additional fee will be charged and the already paid fees will be refunded.
The revised schedule for the examination and admit card release will be issued through official channels in the coming days.
Examination conducted across India and abroad
NEET UG 2026 was conducted in pen-and-paper mode across more than 5,400 centres in 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad. Around 22.79 lakh candidates appeared for the examination, which serves as the single entrance test for admission to MBBS, BDS and other undergraduate medical courses across the country.
