Ahead of the re-examination of NEET UG 2026 on June 21, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has told the Supreme Court that it has introduced major security and structural reforms following the paper leak controversy that led to the cancellation of the earlier exam.In an affidavit filed before the apex court, the NTA said that the decision to cancel the NEET UG 2026 examination to be held on May 3 was taken in the interest of students and to maintain public confidence in the examination system. The affidavit was filed in connection with requests for reforms in the conduct of NEET UG following allegations of irregularities and security lapses in the canceled exam.The NTA informed the court that a high-powered steering committee reviewed the preparations for the re-examination and recommended strict security measures before, during and after the test.According to the affidavit, the new measures include mandatory CCTV checks at examination centres, preservation of footage for at least 90 days, mock drills, weather emergency plans, verification of power backup systems and emergency medical facilities.The agency also said that the CCTV footage will be examined for forensic analysis to detect suspicious activity or irregular behavior that is not visible during live monitoring.As part of the restructuring process following the NEET controversy, the NTA said 16 new senior posts have been created within the organisation, including director and joint director level posts. Two Joint Secretary-level officers have also been appointed as Additional Director Generals to oversee technology operations and monitor security.More than 2.2 lakh candidates appeared for NEET UG 2026, which was held at 5,432 centers in 552 Indian cities and 14 foreign cities before it was canceled over allegations of paper leaks.
