The National Testing Agency (NTA), with approval from the Government of India, has cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3, 2026, following allegations of a major paper leak. Authorities announced that they will re-conduct the medical entrance examination on fresh dates, which they will notify separately. Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticised the BJP-led Central government over the controversy and alleged that NEET had turned into an “auction” instead of a fair examination. The cancellation has increased anxiety among lakhs of medical aspirants across India who are now waiting for the revised exam schedule.
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Key Facts
- Exam Name: NEET UG 2026
- Conducting Agency: National Testing Agency (NTA)
- Original Exam Date: May 3, 2026
- Status: Examination cancelled
- Reason: Alleged paper leak controversy
- Re-Exam: Fresh dates to be announced separately
- Political Reaction: Rahul Gandhi criticised the Central government
NTA Cancels NEET UG 2026 Examination
The National Testing Agency officially announced the cancellation of the NEET UG 2026 examination after allegations of a paper leak surfaced across several regions.
Officials stated that the Government of India approved the decision. Furthermore, authorities confirmed that they will conduct the examination again on new dates.
However, the agency has not announced the revised schedule yet.
Rahul Gandhi Attacks BJP Government
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi strongly criticised the BJP-led Central government over the controversy surrounding the medical entrance examination.
In a post on X, Gandhi alleged that NEET had become an “auction” rather than a fair exam system. He also claimed that some individuals circulated questions on WhatsApp nearly 42 hours before the examination.
Additionally, Gandhi said the government had failed to protect the dreams and future of India’s youth. He also expressed support for students and medical aspirants affected by the cancellation.
Students Face Uncertainty After Cancellation
The cancellation has created uncertainty and stress among lakhs of NEET aspirants and their families across the country.
Many students had spent months preparing for the highly competitive medical entrance examination. Therefore, the announcement of a re-examination has raised fresh concerns regarding preparation timelines and admission schedules.
Authorities are now expected to release fresh examination dates and updated guidelines soon.
Importance of NEET Examination in India
NEET UG serves as India’s primary entrance examination for admission to undergraduate medical courses, including MBBS and BDS programmes.
The examination plays a crucial role for students across India, including Northeast states such as Tripura, Assam, and Meghalaya, where thousands of aspirants compete every year for limited medical seats.
Question and Answer Section
What happened to NEET UG 2026?
The National Testing Agency cancelled the NEET UG 2026 examination due to allegations of a paper leak.
When was the original exam conducted?
Authorities conducted the examination on May 3, 2026.
Why did the government cancel the exam?
Officials cancelled the exam after controversy and allegations related to the paper leak surfaced.
What did Rahul Gandhi say?
Rahul Gandhi criticised the government and alleged that NEET had turned into an “auction” instead of a fair examination.
Will NTA conduct the exam again?
Yes, the NTA confirmed that it will re-conduct the examination on fresh dates.
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