Millions of medical aspirants across India returned to examination halls on Sunday to retake the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate), following the cancellation of the original paper amid allegations of a question paper leak.
The rescheduled exam was conducted under heightened security arrangements at 5,440 centres nationwide, with authorities deploying biometric verification systems, metal detectors, armoured patrols and extensive frisking operations to prevent any recurrence of malpractice.
Candidates arriving early in the morning were met with strict entry protocols. Security personnel checked identification through biometric systems before allowing entry, while police and paramilitary forces were stationed both inside and outside exam venues. The Indian Air Force was also involved in transporting question papers to certain regions to reduce the risk of interception.
The National Testing Agency (NTA), which administers the exam, said more than 95,000 exam rooms were monitored through surveillance systems, with over 1.3 million cameras installed across centres. Officials added that 51,311 signal jammers were deployed to block mobile communication and prevent electronic cheating.
Authorities also temporarily restricted access to the messaging platform Telegram until Monday, citing concerns over its possible misuse in circulating exam-related content. In addition, around 39,000 staff were assigned to frisk candidates, with 40 to 50 security personnel posted at each centre.
Strict dress codes were enforced, including bans on enclosed footwear. In several locations, students were asked to remove accessories such as earrings, nose pins and wrist threads during security checks, as part of intensified screening measures. Drone surveillance and dog squads were also reportedly used at selected centres to monitor surrounding areas.
The NTA urged students to disregard rumours circulating on social media about further leaks, stating that such claims were intended to create confusion and anxiety.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan addressed candidates ahead of the exam, encouraging them to remain calm and focus on their performance. “Sit fearlessly, without worry, and you will definitely do well,” he said.
Despite reassurances, some students expressed concern over repeated irregularities in the examination system. Many noted the pressure of preparing again within a short period after the cancellation of the original test.
The NEET-UG exam, which consists of 180 questions covering physics, chemistry and biology over three hours and 15 minutes, remains one of the most competitive entrance tests in India. Of the 2.28 million candidates who took the exam earlier in May, only a small fraction are expected to secure admission to medical colleges.
The question paper leak allegations have been referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation, as authorities continue to probe the breach and tighten safeguards around future examinations.
