NEET 2026 Paper Leak: Supreme Court Hearing Today, Re-Exam Security Tightened
Supreme Court hears pleas on the NEET paper leak, re-exam security beefed up.
Top Summary
- What happened: Alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak prompts Supreme Court hearing and re-examination.
- Why it matters: Impacts the integrity of India's medical entrance exam and future doctors.
- What changes: NEET re-exam on June 21 with enhanced security; PMO oversight.
- Who is affected: Over 22 lakh medical aspirants, NTA, and concerned parents.
Supreme Court to Hear NEET Paper Leak Case
The Supreme Court is set to hear crucial petitions today regarding the NEET-UG paper leak case. Petitioners are demanding the dissolution of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and a CBI probe.
The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) and the United Doctors Front (UDF) seek reforms to restore public trust.
NTA Files Affidavit, Implements Reforms
The NTA has filed an affidavit before the Supreme Court. It states commitment to the integrity, transparency, fairness, and credibility of every examination.
The affidavit notes that many reforms recommended by the High-Level Committee are already implemented or in advanced stages.
Air Force May Transport Re-Exam Papers
The Centre is exploring using Indian Air Force aircraft to transport question papers for the re-exam on June 21. This is to strengthen security.
A high-level meeting included the Ministry of Education, NTA officials, and the CBI Director General.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assures strict security measures for the re-examination.
PMO Oversight and CBI Investigation
Officials from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) will closely monitor every stage of the re-examination. This includes question paper setting, printing, transportation, and delivery.
The CBI has arrested 13 people, including a doctor from Latur and a tutor from Pune, in connection with the leak.
NTA Addresses Allegations
The NTA confirmed receiving input regarding alleged malpractice on May 7 from Rajasthan and Uttarakhand.
On May 13, reports claimed 135 questions matched a circulated question bank. This included all 90 Biology and 45 Chemistry questions.
The NTA on May 22 told a Parliamentary Committee that no full-fledged paper leak occurred, claiming only "certain questions came out".
Supreme Court Concerns
The Supreme Court has raised concerns over the NTA's handling of exam security. The court noted disappointment that the agency appeared not to have learned from past mistakes.
The court sought responses from the Centre, NTA, and CBI on pleas demanding a stronger body to conduct NEET exams.
Deadline Extended for Fee Refund Details
The deadline for submitting bank account details for the NEET UG 2026 fee refund process has been extended. Candidates can now update details until June 22, 2026, at 11:50 pm.
Minister's Statement
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that the government is making every effort to ensure a fair and secure re-examination process.
"No one will be spared," he said, warning that those responsible would face strict action.
Exam Security Measures
The original NEET UG 2026 exam was conducted on May 3. The NTA stated it was under "full security protocol," including:
- GPS-tracked paper transport
- Biometric verification
- AI-assisted CCTV monitoring
- 5G jammers at centres
NEET-Linked Deaths
An analysis indicates at least 93 reported NEET-linked student suicides over the past five years. The number rose from 4 in 2021 to a peak of 32 in 2025.
In 2026, at least 14 such deaths have already been reported.
What to Watch Next
The Supreme Court hearing today will be crucial in determining the future of the NTA and the NEET examination process. All eyes are on the security arrangements for the June 21 re-examination to ensure a fair and transparent process for all students.