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‘2 years of hard work feel wasted’: Aspirants react to NEET cancellation

The NTA cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 exam held on May 3 due to alleged irregularities and paper leak concerns, scheduling a re-conduct. The central government handed the matter to the CBI, with the NTA pledging cooperation. Reactions from students, coaching institutes, and a political figure followed, highlighting mental health impacts and calls for system-wide security improvements.

Why It Matters

The decision affects millions of medical admission prospects and raises questions about test security and the handling of nationwide exam disruptions. It also signals potential delays in admissions and ongoing investigations into irregularities.

Timeline

3 Events

Aspirants and coaching institutes react to cancellation

May 13, 2026

Aspirants and coaching organizations expressed strong reactions to the cancellation, citing mental pressure and the burden of re-preparation. They highlighted concerns about the security of the new paper and potential delays in admissions, while some noted that blanket cancellation across centres may be unfair to genuine students. A political figure commented on the impact of broad cancellations on the admissions process.

Central government to hand matter to CBI; NTA to cooperate

May 13, 2026

The central government decided to hand the matter over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The NTA said it would fully cooperate with the investigation and provide all necessary records and assistance.

NEET-UG 2026 cancellation announced by NTA

May 12, 2026

The National Testing Agency announced the cancellation of the NEET-UG 2026 examination conducted on May 3, citing alleged irregularities and paper leak concerns. The exam will be re-conducted and dates will be announced soon.