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oi-Gaurav Sharma
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has rejected allegations surrounding a possible paper leak in the NEET UG 2026 examination, asserting that the medical entrance test was conducted under strict security arrangements across all centres in India and abroad.
NEET UG 2026, held on May 3 from 2 PM to 5 PM, saw participation from nearly 22.79 lakh candidates aspiring for admission to MBBS and BDS programmes, making it one of the largest undergraduate entrance examinations in the country.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) denies allegations of a NEET UG 2026 paper leak, confirming strict security measures were used during the May 3 exam attended by 22.79 lakh candidates, while cooperating with an ongoing investigation into suspected malpractice.
Soon after the examination concluded, claims of irregularities and a possible paper leak began circulating on social media, triggering widespread concern among students and parents. The controversy intensified after reports emerged that the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) had launched action in connection with suspected malpractice linked to the examination process.
According to media reports, several individuals were detained over their alleged involvement in an organised cheating racket that was suspected of attempting to compromise the integrity of the exam.
Responding to the allegations, the NTA issued an official statement maintaining that comprehensive security protocols and strict monitoring mechanisms were in place throughout the conduct of the examination. The agency said the exam was carried out smoothly under “full security protocol” at every centre.
The testing agency also confirmed that suspicious inputs received after the examination had been shared with central investigative agencies for verification. It added that examination-related and technical data are being provided to investigators as part of the ongoing probe into the alleged irregularities.
NEET UG remains the primary gateway for undergraduate medical and dental admissions, including MBBS and BDS courses, in government and private institutions across India. The examination witnesses massive competition every year due to the limited number of medical seats available nationwide.
