The controversy surrounding the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026 has now reached the Supreme Court of India, with a major petition demanding the replacement of the National Testing Agency and a fresh examination under judicial supervision.
The petition was filed by the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) after the NTA cancelled the NEET-UG 2026 examination conducted on 3 May 2026 due to alleged paper leak and malpractice concerns.
What Does the Petition Demand?
According to reports, the plea argues that the NEET controversy reflects a “systemic failure” in the functioning of the NTA rather than an isolated lapse. FAIMA has requested the Supreme Court to either:
- replace the NTA entirely, or
- restructure it into a more technologically advanced and transparent examination body.
The petition also seeks:
- a fresh NEET-UG 2026 examination under judicial monitoring,
- formation of a High-Powered Monitoring Committee, and
- supervision by a retired Supreme Court judge along with cybersecurity and forensic experts.
Why Was NEET-UG 2026 Cancelled?
The examination was cancelled after allegations that “guess papers” circulating on WhatsApp and Telegram reportedly matched a large number of actual exam questions. Investigations by Rajasthan’s Special Operations Group (SOG) and later the Central Bureau of Investigation intensified concerns over the integrity of the examination.
Authorities are currently investigating:
- paper leak networks,
- middlemen and brokers,
- digital circulation of question papers, and
- alleged sale of leaked material for huge amounts.
Proposed Reforms
The petition also recommends major reforms in national entrance examinations, including:
- transition to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) model,
- digital locking of question papers, and
- stronger cybersecurity systems to prevent future leaks.
Impact on Students
The cancellation has affected more than 22 lakh NEET aspirants across India. Student protests have emerged in several cities demanding transparency, accountability, and quick announcement of fresh exam dates.
Meanwhile, the government has clarified that:
- students will not need to register again,
- no extra fee will be charged, and
- fresh exam dates will be announced soon.
Conclusion
The NEET-UG 2026 controversy has triggered one of the biggest debates on the credibility of India’s examination system. With the matter now before the Supreme Court, the coming weeks are expected to play a crucial role in deciding not only the future of NEET-UG 2026 but also the future structure of national-level entrance examinations in India.
Source: https://www.livelaw.in
