Press Release for NEET (UG) – 2026 dated 10 May 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued a crucial press release regarding alleged irregularities surrounding the NEET (UG) 2026 examination. This statement addresses reports concerning actions initiated by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) in relation to these alleged malpractices, aiming to inform all candidates, parents, and the general public about the ongoing situation and the NTA's role. It underscores the NTA's commitment to maintaining the integrity and fairness of the examination system while cooperating fully with investigating authorities.

The NEET (UG) 2026 examination itself was conducted as per schedule on 3 May 2026, under stringent and comprehensive security protocols. The NTA ensured robust measures were in place, including the transportation of question papers in GPS-tracked vehicles that featured unique, traceable watermark identifiers. Furthermore, examination halls were under constant AI-assisted CCTV monitoring from a central control room, complemented by biometric verification for every candidate and the deployment of 5G jammers to prevent communication interference. The NTA confirms that the examination process on the day proceeded smoothly across all centres as planned.

Despite the smooth conduct of the examination, the NTA received inputs concerning alleged malpractice activities on the late evening of 7 May 2026, four days post-examination. These crucial inputs were swiftly escalated by the NTA to central agencies on the morning of 8 May 2026 to facilitate independent verification and necessary action. The subsequent actions undertaken by law enforcement agencies, including recent detentions reported in the media, are a direct outcome of their professional and timely efforts. The NTA expresses its deep appreciation for these agencies and confirms its active collaboration, providing all necessary examination-related data and technical assistance. The agency assures the vast majority of bona-fide aspirants of NEET (UG) 2026 that their efforts and integrity are not questioned and will not be devalued, urging candidates to remain calm and allow the agencies to complete their investigation. Any further steps will be taken in consultation with the Ministry of Education.

• Examination Date: The NEET (UG) 2026 examination was conducted on 3 May 2026.
• Security Protocols: The exam featured a full security protocol, including GPS-tracked vehicles for question papers, unique traceable watermark identifiers, AI-assisted CCTV monitoring from a central control room, biometric verification of candidates, and 5G jammers.
• Alleged Malpractice Inputs Received: The National Testing Agency (NTA) received inputs concerning alleged malpractice activity on the late evening of 7 May 2026.
• Escalation to Central Agencies: These inputs were escalated by NTA to central agencies on the morning of 8 May 2026 for independent verification and necessary action.
• Ongoing Investigation: The matter is currently under investigation by law enforcement agencies, and the facts will be established in due course. The NTA will not pre-judge the inquiry.
• NTA's Stance on Candidates: The NTA assures that the effort and integrity of the very large majority of bona-fide NEET (UG) 2026 aspirants are not in question and will not be devalued.
• Future Actions: Any necessary steps concerning the situation will be taken in consultation with the Ministry of Education at the appropriate stage.
• NTA Commitment: The NTA remains committed to conducting fair, secure, and credible examinations and is closely working with all investigating agencies in support of the integrity of the examination system.

Given the ongoing situation, here's what candidates and parents should do next or keep in mind:

1. Maintain Composure: The NTA explicitly asks candidates to allow the investigating agencies the necessary space and time to complete their work, assuring that the integrity of bona-fide aspirants is not in question.
2. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on official announcements from the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the Ministry of Education for any updates regarding the investigation and its outcomes.
3. For Queries and Assistance: If you have any specific questions or concerns related to NEET (UG) 2026, please utilize the official helpline and contact channels provided by the NTA.
   • Helpline Phone Numbers: You can reach the NEET 2026 helpline at 011-40759000 or 011-69227700 (also listed as +91-11-40759000).
   • Email Support: Send your queries via email to neet-ug@nta.ac.in (also listed as neetug2026@nta.ac.in).
4. Visit Official Websites: For reliable information and official notifications, regularly check the NTA's official websites: www.nta.ac.in and https://neet.nta.nic.in/.