Decentralise the NEET-UG exam, demands IMA

The Indian Medical Association has written to the Union Education Minister after the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. It has sought decentralisation, online exams and a time-bound probe, saying repeated irregularities have shaken trust.

In Short

• The association wrote to Dharmendra Pradhan over recurring examination irregularities
• It said repeated controversies have troubled the NTA-led test for years
• Advanced security measures and quick clarity on re-examination were recommended

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has written to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, calling for action in response to the NEET-UGC 2026 paper leak.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) exam has been the subject of numerous disputes over the past four years, including two cancellations brought on by paper leaks and irregularities in the exam.

In particular, it conveys intense worry and distress over the persistent irregularities and purported paper leaks impacting national competitive examinations, especially NEET-UG.

The letter made recommendations and urged the government to take further steps, including introducing advanced security and technological safeguards and providing timely clarity regarding the re-examination schedule to reduce anxiety among students.

It also pointed towards the various challenges.

The letter highlighted the size of the test and stated that it is a very difficult undertaking to administer such a large exam in a single phase and on a single day using physical question papers across the nation.

In order to reduce the likelihood of question paper leaks and other test malpractices, it also offers a solution that the NEET-UG exam be administered online.

Additionally, it called for decentralising the administration of the NEET-UG exam by giving the states and union territories more authority within an open and responsible framework.

And further called for a credible and time-bound CBI investigation and demanded the arrest of all culprits involved as well as a comprehensive and impartial investigation. The letter urges the government to establish special fast-track courts for daily hearings and ensure strict punishment under the relevant laws relating to examination irregularities.

The letter stated that “IMA strongly believes that protecting the sanctity of medical entrance examinations is essential for preserving the quality and integrity of the Indian healthcare system.”

It also emphasised that thousands of diligent students and their families, who devote years of sacrifice, self-control, and hope to gaining admission into medical schools, have lost faith in these changes.

- Ends