Parliamentary Panel Questions CBI and NTA Over NEET UG 2026 Paper Leak
On Friday, a parliamentary committee convened a crucial meeting to examine the NEET UG paper leak case, summoning the Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Praveen Sood, and the Director General of the National Testing Agency (NTA), Abhishek Singh. The panel is reviewing the progress of the investigation, alleged irregularities in exam conduct, and the adequacy of security arrangements. Dr. M. Thambidurai chairs the committee.
Key Officials Called to Testify
The committee is hearing testimonies from several senior officials, including the Secretary of the Department of Higher Education under the Ministry of Education, the NTA Director General, and the CBI Director. Additionally, the panel will consult the Secretary of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, the Chairman of the National Medical Commission (NMC), and the CBI chief. The objective is to gather a comprehensive understanding of the lapses that led to the leak and the steps being taken to prevent future occurrences.
According to a notice issued by the Rajya Sabha Secretariat on May 27, the Committee on Government Assurances has summoned these top officials. The meeting began at 11 AM, with the panel focusing on the operational aspects of the examination and the current status of the probe.
Officials Present at the Hearing
The committee is scheduled to question Vineet Joshi, Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, along with Abhishek Singh and Praveen Sood. The panel is seeking detailed information on how the NTA manages the conduct of high-stakes exams and expects a thorough briefing on the investigation’s milestones in the NEET UG 2026 leak case.
Background of the Controversy
The issue traces back to an unstarred question raised in the Rajya Sabha on November 27, 2024, which questioned the NTA’s ability to conduct fair examinations. In its response, the Ministry of Education stated that agencies are contracted to organize exams under strict government rules and guidelines. The ministry further explained that if complaints are received against a vendor, action is taken according to the terms of the tender and work order. Penalties can range from payment deductions to the complete debarment of the agency.
The NEET UG examination was held on May 3 this year. However, following allegations of a paper leak, the NTA cancelled the exam on May 12. The CBI is currently investigating the matter, and a re-examination has been scheduled for June 21.
