Kamal Ghorui
NEET UG 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has issued a statement regarding the ongoing investigation into alleged irregularities linked to NEET (UG) 2026 following action initiated by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG). The agency said the examination held on May 3, 2026, was conducted under a “full security protocol” across all centres.In a post shared on X, NTA stated that the examination process proceeded as scheduled and included multiple security measures such as GPS-tracked transportation of question papers, AI-assisted CCTV surveillance, biometric verification of candidates, and the use of 5G jammers at examination centres. The agency said the measures were implemented across all venues on the day of the examination.NTA details examination security arrangementsAccording to the statement, question papers were transported in GPS-enabled vehicles carrying unique and traceable watermark identifiers. Examination halls were monitored through AI-assisted CCTV systems connected to a central control room.The agency also stated that biometric verification was carried out for every candidate appearing in the examination. In addition, 5G jammers were operational at centres during the conduct of the examination. NTA said the examination process itself was completed as planned across all centres.Inputs on alleged malpractice received after examinationNTA stated that it received inputs concerning alleged malpractice activity on the late evening of May 7, 2026, four days after the examination had been conducted. According to the agency, the information was escalated to central agencies on the morning of May 8, 2026, for independent verification and further action.The statement said the subsequent action taken by law enforcement agencies, including detentions reported in the media in recent days, followed investigations conducted by those agencies. NTA said it is cooperating with the authorities by providing examination-related data and technical assistance required for the inquiry.The agency also placed on record its appreciation for the work carried out by the investigating agencies in connection with the matter.Investigation underway, says agencyNTA stated that the matter remains under investigation and that facts related to the case would be established by the agencies involved. The agency said it would not pre-judge the inquiry or comment on the likely outcome of the investigation.It added that any findings made by the agencies, including those requiring further action, would be examined transparently and disclosed according to established procedure.Message issued for candidates and familiesAddressing NEET (UG) 2026 candidates and their families, NTA stated that the effort and integrity of the majority of bona fide aspirants “is not in question, and will not be devalued”.The agency acknowledged concerns arising from reports related to the investigation and asked candidates to allow investigating agencies to complete their work. It also stated that any necessary steps would be taken in consultation with the Ministry of Education at the appropriate stage.NTA has issued a helpline for queries related to NEET (UG) 2026. Candidates can contact the agency through email at neet-ug@nta.ac.in or through the helpline numbers 011-40759000 and 011-69227700.
