Amid the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, the Centre is considering involving the defence forces to provide logistical support for the re-examination scheduled on June 21, government sources said.
The proposal is aimed at ensuring secure transportation and handling of examination papers to prevent any repeat of irregularities that led to the cancellation of the earlier test.
High-Level Meet Over NEET Re-exam
Sources said an important meeting on NEET preparedness was held on Thursday at Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s residence. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, the NTA Director General, and senior officials from the Education Ministry and the Prime Minister’s Office attended the meeting.
The discussions focused on strengthening security arrangements and closely monitoring every stage of the examination process, including paper setting, printing, transportation and distribution. According to sources, the PMO is directly overseeing preparations, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi being regularly briefed on developments.
Initially, the NEET-UG examination was conducted on May 3 across 551 cities in India and 14 international centres, with over 22 lakh candidates appearing for the test. However, the examination was cancelled on May 12 after allegations of a coordinated paper leak surfaced, triggering nationwide protests and multiple investigations, including a CBI probe.
23 Lakh Students To Appear For Re-exam On June 21
Officials said nearly 23 lakh students are expected to appear for the re-examination on June 21. The government has ordered enhanced security measures and tighter coordination between agencies to ensure transparency and credibility in the conduct of the exam.
Meanwhile, the National Testing Agency has extended the deadline for candidates to submit bank account details for fee refunds till June 22 at 11.50 pm. The agency said around 13 lakh candidates have already updated their details on the portal.
/images/ppid_a911dc6a-image-178019406410677703.webp)
