CBI probing NEET paper leak, PM monitoring re-exam preparations:Edu Minister reviews arrangements ahead of June 21 re-test

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday said the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is conducting a thorough probe into the NEET-UG paper leak case and has been directed to ensure strict action against those responsible. Pradhan reviewed preparations for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, scheduled for June 21, during a meeting with officials at the National Testing Agency (NTA) headquarters. Speaking to reporters after the review, the minister said the government has put in place a high-level mechanism to ensure the re-examination is conducted in a transparent and error-free manner. ‘CBI will get to the bottom of the case’ Expressing confidence in the investigation, Pradhan said the CBI is examining all aspects of the alleged irregularities. “The CBI is getting to the bottom of the paper leak case. I have full faith that it will uncover the details of the irregularities. I have requested the agency to take the strictest possible action against those found guilty and ensure a speedy trial through a fast-track court,” he said. PM Modi personally monitoring preparations The minister said the Centre is taking extensive measures to ensure the integrity of the re-test, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is personally monitoring the preparations. “There were challenges in the past, and there are challenges now. However, everyone should be assured that mistakes committed earlier will not be repeated,” Pradhan said. He added that Chief Ministers across states are extending cooperation and that coordination between the Centre and states is being strengthened ahead of the examination. Entire govt machinery involved Pradhan said multiple ministries and senior government officials are working together to ensure the smooth conduct of the examination. “The entire machinery of the Government of India is engaged. The Cabinet Secretary, Home Secretary and national security agencies are closely monitoring the situation. I have met the Home Minister and Defence Minister and will also meet the Health Minister,” he said. According to the minister, the government is receiving support from state administrations and remains confident of cooperation from all states. States asked to step up vigilance Pradhan said he has written to all Chief Ministers seeking enhanced support and vigilance during the examination process. “I have reviewed the NEET examination process several times and visited the NTA office today. States have supported us in the past and will pay even greater attention this time. Each state is making its own preparations,” he said. NTA being strengthened ahead of exam The Education Minister said the NTA is being strengthened institutionally, with new officials joining the organisation and additional safeguards being introduced. He also announced that the Union Home Secretary will chair a high-level meeting in the coming days to review preparedness and coordination among agencies. Exam to be held in 551 cities Pradhan said all concerned agencies are carrying out their responsibilities and expressed confidence in the conduct of the examination. “I have complete confidence in our team. This time, as we have planned, the examination will be conducted across 551 cities in the country through 5,435 centers, including 14 centers outside India. All the necessary arrangements are being completed,” he said. He further said, “I would like to reassure students and their parents. We had said earlier that we would conduct an error-free NEET examination this time, and I want to reassure everyone once again. We will also declare the results on time so that students do not lose valuable learning time.” ​