Millions of hopeful medical students sat in 5,440 exam centres on Sunday, looking for the third‑time certainty after the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET‑UG) was cancelled in May following a paper‑leak scandal. The government, determined to keep the exam fair, disciplined every candidate: biometric scans, metal detectors, armoured patrols, and strict dress codes meant no enclosed shoes or ornamental accessories were allowed. The Indian Air Force crack‑delivered the new test papers to several regions, while 1.3 million cameras were installed and 51,311 jammers disabled phone signals to prevent electronic cheating.
The Indian National Testing Agency advised students to ignore rumours of a second leak, stating social‑media messages were intentionally deceptive. Still, students reported fear given the history of leaks; one remarked, "It’s not a one‑off thing, it happens every year." The Central Bureau of Investigation is looking into the alleged leak, echoing past controversies where same‑year scandals in 2024 and 2025 triggered nationwide protests.
Telegram was banned until Monday after concerns it could be used to share cheating instructions; 100% of exams also had 40‑50 security officers per centre and nearly 39,000 staff for frisking. Students were advised to ignore false rumours. The exam, lasting 3 hours and 15 minutes, covers 180 questions in physics, chemistry and biology.
The crackdown reflects the high stakes of NEET‑UG: only a small percentage secure coveted medical college placements, and a successful candidate can set a lifelong career path. The intensified security measures underline the government’s commitment to preserving academic fairness, even as student frustration and protests rise.
