NEET-UG Re-Exam: NTA Dismisses Fresh Paper Leak Rumours Ahead of June 21 Test

The NTA stated that preparations for the re-examination are being reviewed closely at every level to ensure the integrity of the test. In a post on X, the agency said that coordinated efforts involving the Central Government, State Governments, and district administrations are underway, with a clear focus on providing a smooth, secure, and fair examination experience for all candidates.

The clarification came after a social media user highlighted viral claims suggesting that the NEET-UG question paper had once again been leaked ahead of the re-test. Responding directly to the allegation, the NTA stated, "This is fake."

The NEET-UG examination was originally conducted on May 3 but was subsequently cancelled after authorities confirmed that the question paper had been leaked before the examination. The development triggered widespread outrage among students and political opposition parties, leading authorities to order a fresh examination on June 21.

In an attempt to address concerns raised by candidates, the government announced that students appearing for the re-examination would be granted an additional 15 minutes to complete formalities and fill in required details before beginning the test.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday reassured students that the re-examination would be conducted in a transparent, fair, and well-organised manner. Speaking to reporters in Bhopal, he appealed to candidates to remain focused on their preparation and maintain confidence.

"Through all of you, I appeal to all NEET students to stay confident and focus on their studies. The re-examination will be conducted in a fair and well-organised manner," Pradhan said.

The cancellation of the May 3 examination caused significant anxiety among thousands of NEET aspirants across the country. The uncertainty surrounding the examination process led to intense emotional distress, with reports of student suicides emerging from different regions.

In one such case, a 20-year-old NEET aspirant in Nagpur died by suicide. Her family alleged that the paper leak controversy and subsequent cancellation of the examination had pushed her into severe distress. In another tragic incident in Karnataka's Kalaburagi district, an 18-year-old student was found hanging. Although no suicide note was recovered, her father said she may have been under stress related to preparing for the re-test.

Meanwhile, a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry into the NEET paper leak remains underway. As of May, 13 individuals had been arrested in connection with the case, with most of the arrests reported from Maharashtra. The agency stated that its investigation is continuing and that teams are working to identify the original source of the leak that occurred before the examination.

Investigators are also examining the possible involvement of NTA insiders. Last month, the government accepted responsibility for the administrative failure that led to the breach and expressed regret over the cancellation of the examination and the need to conduct a fresh test.

As the June 21 re-examination approaches, authorities are attempting to restore confidence in one of the country's most important entrance examinations. With heightened security measures, an ongoing federal investigation, and assurances from the government, the focus now remains on ensuring a credible and transparent process for millions of aspiring medical students.