Government Takes Action to Ensure Fairness in NEET UG 2026 Re-Examination
In a bid to secure the NEET UG 2026 re-examination, the government has imposed restrictions on the Telegram messaging app until June 22. This action aims to prevent cheating and dismantle networks involved in alleged question paper leaks. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has welcomed this decision, emphasizing the importance of maintaining transparency and integrity in the examination process. Investigative agencies are also cracking down on fraudulent channels that have been soliciting money from students. With over 22 lakh candidates expected to participate in the upcoming re-examination, the NTA is committed to ensuring a secure and fair testing environment.
| Jun 16, 2026, 13:22 IST
Measures to Secure NEET UG 2026
The central government has restricted access to the messaging app Telegram until June 22 to ensure a fair and secure environment for the NEET UG 2026 re-examination. This directive was issued today by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act. Officials stated that this measure aims to curb cheating and dismantle networks associated with alleged question paper leaks.
Additionally, the government has mandated the suspension of Telegram's message editing feature until June 30. According to the National Testing Agency (NTA), certain groups were altering old messages to insert question papers, misleading students and parents by presenting them as proof of leaks. The agency emphasized that claims of having access to actual question papers outside a secure examination system are entirely fraudulent and should not be trusted.
Crackdown on Fraudulent Channels
In recent weeks, numerous channels on Telegram with names like "Leaked NEET Paper," "Re NEET 2026," and "Private Mafia" have been active. These channels have solicited thousands to millions of rupees from anxious students and parents, claiming to provide real question papers. The NTA has warned that all such claims are part of a scam designed to confuse students.
Investigative agencies have intensified their actions in this matter. The Cyber Crime Branch of Ahmedabad has uncovered an interstate gang operating eight channels on Telegram targeting students. Investigations revealed that transactions amounting to approximately 1.5 crore rupees were conducted through fake accounts, with contact made from around a thousand mobile numbers within a month. The Economic Offenses Unit of Bihar Police had previously cautioned students to be wary of such claims. The process of removing suspicious channels is also underway in coordination with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Balancing Security and User Experience
The NTA acknowledged that the temporary ban on Telegram would inconvenience millions of regular users who rely on the platform for studies, business, and personal communication. While expressing regret for this inconvenience, the agency stressed that the security of the examination is paramount, which is the primary reason for this action. They clarified that the restriction would be lifted after June 22.
Meanwhile, the NTA has attempted to reassure students. On Tuesday morning, the agency reported that over 10 lakh students had downloaded their admit cards within 24 hours of their release. The NTA's technical team is continuously monitoring the server to ensure timely access to admit cards for all candidates and to prevent any technical issues.
Upcoming Re-Examination Details
It is important to note that the NEET UG exam scheduled for May 3 was canceled on May 12 due to alleged question paper leaks. The re-examination is set to take place on June 21, with over 22 lakh candidates expected to participate. Agencies have urged students and parents to refrain from believing any unverified information, social media messages, or fraudulent claims. If anyone claims to provide question papers or assistance during the exam, they should report it immediately to the cyber helpline at 1930. The government and investigative agencies are committed to ensuring a completely transparent and fair examination process this time.