NEET-UG 2026 Exam Cancelled Amid Paper Leak Allegations

In a significant development, Nashik Police apprehended a suspect linked to the NEET-UG 2026 exam irregularities, based on a request from the Rajasthan Police, official sources announced on Tuesday. Deputy Commissioner Kiran Kumar Chauhan confirmed the detention, highlighting collaboration between Nashik Crime Branch Unit 2 and Rajasthan authorities.

Rajasthan Police had sought Nashik's assistance earlier this morning, leading to the swift detention of the suspect. The Rajasthan team is en route to assume custody, as indicated by Chauhan, unfolding a key chapter in the investigation spearheaded by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group into alleged malpractices.

The probe focuses on allegations that a 'guess paper' containing around 410 questions, with a significant overlap in the Chemistry section, was leaked to students weeks before the exam. This situation has prompted the central government to cancel the May 3 NEET-UG exam and enlist the Central Bureau of Investigation for a thorough probe into the alleged corruption.

Following a comprehensive review of inputs from central agencies, the National Testing Agency announced the decision, ensuring that registration information and previously selected exam centers remain intact for the rescheduled test. Approximately 22.79 lakh candidates had participated in the original exam conducted globally across over 5,400 centers.

(With inputs from agencies.)