NEET-UG re-test: PMO steps in, to monitor paper setting to final delivery process
The Centre has tightened oversight of NEET 2026 after the paper leak controversy, with PMO officials set to closely monitor everything from paper setting and printing to transportation and delivery at exam centres. The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired at Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's residence in Delhi.
After the massive NEET paper leak controversy that forced cancellation of the exam, the Centre is now tightening security at every single stage of the process, right down to the moment the paper reaches the last student's hands.
In a high-level meeting held at Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s residence in Delhi, top officials discussed fresh measures for the June 21 NEET re-examination, which is expected to be taken by nearly 23 lakh students.
According to top government sources, PMO officials will now closely monitor the entire chain of the examination process, including paper setting, printing, transportation and final delivery at exam centres.
The meeting lasted around 40 minutes and was attended by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, NTA Director General Abhishek Singh and senior PMO officials.
PM MODI 'DIRECTLY MONITORING' THE PROCESS
Sources said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally keeping track of developments linked to the examination and is being regularly updated on every major detail.
Officials also indicated that the earlier NEET exam was cancelled only after signals of possible irregularities emerged and the Prime Minister directed immediate action.
The fresh monitoring mechanism is aimed at preventing any repeat of the controversy that triggered nationwide outrage, protests and political attacks over the credibility of India’s biggest medical entrance examination.
SECURITY UNDER INTENSE SCRUTINY
The alleged paper leak had sparked serious concerns about how confidential exam papers moved through multiple stages before reaching students.
Now, with lakhs of aspirants preparing again for the NEET re-exam on June 21 re-test, the government appears determined to avoid even the slightest lapse.
Sources said Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has been continuously reviewing preparations ahead of the re-exam, while multiple agencies remain involved in tightening security arrangements.
The new monitoring system could become one of the strictest oversight mechanisms ever used for a national entrance exam in India, especially after the earlier controversy shook trust in the system.