NEET UG To Go Online From 2027, No More OMR Sheets: Dharmendra Pradhan After Paper Leak Row
New Delhi, May 15: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday announced that the NEET UG examination will be conducted in computer-based mode from next year, replacing the existing OMR-sheet format. The move comes in the wake of the NEET UG 2026 paper leak controversy that triggered nationwide outrage and uncertainty among lakhs of students.
Addressing a press conference, the minister said the transition to online examinations is aimed at tackling the root causes behind paper leaks and exam-related malpractice.
NEET UG To Shift To Computer-Based Test
Pradhan stated that beginning next year, NEET UG will no longer be conducted using OMR sheets. Instead, candidates will appear for the examination through a computer-based testing system.
According to the minister, the decision is part of a broader effort to strengthen the integrity and security of one of India’s largest entrance examinations.
Fresh NEET UG 2026 Exam Date Announced
The Union minister confirmed that the NEET UG 2026 re-examination will be held on June 21. Admit cards for the fresh exam will be issued by June 14.
He reiterated the government’s “zero tolerance” policy against examination malpractices and warned individuals involved in disrupting the examination process of strict legal action.
Government Says Social Media Fuelled Confusion
During the briefing, Pradhan accused several social media handles of spreading misinformation and creating panic among students and parents after the leak controversy surfaced.
He said the government is closely monitoring attempts to disturb the re-examination process and assured students that authorities are taking every necessary measure to ensure fairness.
CBI Investigating NEET Paper Leak
The minister revealed that concerns first emerged a few days after the May 3 NEET UG 2026 examination, when reports about a suspected “guess paper” surfaced.
Following complaints from whistleblowers, central agencies launched an investigation and later confirmed that the question paper had indeed been leaked.
Pradhan added that the matter was immediately handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation and expressed confidence in the agency’s ongoing probe.
Government Promises Strict Action Against Exam Mafias
Calling the issue a “long battle” against exam mafias and anti-social elements, the minister said the government and top leadership are treating the matter with utmost seriousness.
He warned those attempting to interfere with the re-examination process to stay away or face punishment under the law.
