NEET UG 2026 Cancelled: Jaipur Man Alleged As 'Mastermind' Arrested; Centre Orders CBI Probe

New Delhi: The National Testing Agency (NTA), with the approval of the government on Tuesday has decided to cancel the NEET (UG) 2026 examination conducted on May 3, 2026, and to re-conduct the examination on dates that will be notified separately.

The agency made this decision based on the approval of the Central government and input from investigating agencies, in order to maintain the transparency and credibility of the examination system.

What did NTA say?

The development comes a days after it was alleged that there has been a paper leak in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test, Undergraduate (NEET UG) 2026 exam. 

Taking to X, the NTA made the announcement and said that, "In continuation of its press release dated 10 May 2026, the National Testing Agency wishes to inform candidates, parents, and members of the public of the following decisions taken in respect of NEET (UG) 2026. NTA had, on 8 May 2026, referred the matters then under consideration to the central agencies for independent verification and necessary action, consistent with its standing commitment to the fair, secure, and credible conduct of the national examinations entrusted to it," NTA wrote.

In continuation of its press release dated 10 May 2026, the National Testing Agency wishes to inform candidates, parents, and members of the public of the following decisions taken in respect of NEET (UG) 2026. NTA had, on 8 May 2026, referred the matters then under consideration…

— National Testing Agency (@NTA_Exams) May 12, 2026

Will the paper be re-issued?

The NTA stated that the facts revealed during the investigation and reports from law enforcement agencies made it clear that continuing with the current examination process would not be appropriate. Therefore, the NEET-UG 2026 exam will be rescheduled. The new exam dates and admit card schedule will be released shortly through the official website.

Is the mastermind arrested?

The Rajasthan SOG has arrested NEET paper leak masterminds Manish Yadav and Rakesh Mandavriya. Over 22 lakh students appeared for NEET held on May 3. 

Will CBI investigate the matter?

Given the seriousness of this matter, the Central government has decided to hand the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The agency has stated that it will provide all possible cooperation and all documents and records necessary for the investigation.

The NTA also clarified that this decision was made with the best interests of students in mind. The agency acknowledged the difficulties students and their families will face due to the cancellation of the exam, but stated that maintaining long-term trust is more important.

Do student have to apply again?

Students are relieved that they will not have to re-register. All data from the May 2026 exam cycle, including candidate information and selected exam centers, will be preserved. Furthermore, no additional fees will be charged, and previously deposited exam fees will be refunded.

What did NTA appeal to parents?

The NTA has appealed to students and parents to rely only on official information and avoid unverified news circulating on social media.