NTA Outlines Sweeping Exam Reforms in Supreme Court Affidavit
Following the controversy surrounding the NEET UG 2026 paper leak and subsequent exam cancellation, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has informed the Supreme Court of substantial structural and security overhauls implemented across its examination framework. The disclosure came through an official affidavit filed in response to petitions seeking comprehensive reforms within the agency.
The legal action was initiated by the Federation of All India Medical Associations (FAIMA) and the United Doctors Front (UDF), both of which raised serious concerns about alleged irregularities during the NEET UG 2026 administration. Their petitions called for immediate and thorough changes to how the NTA conducts its examinations.
High-Powered Committee Meeting and Recommended Safeguards
In its affidavit, the NTA revealed that a meeting of the High-Powered Steering Committee (HPSC) took place on April 17, 2026. During this session, committee members reviewed preparations for NEET UG 2026 and put forward a series of security protocols designed to be enforced before, during, and after the examination process.
Among the key recommendations was a mandatory verification of CCTV systems at every examination centre, coupled with a requirement to preserve footage for a minimum of 90 days. The committee also advised conducting mock drills at test venues, developing dedicated contingency plans for weather-related emergencies, verifying power backup arrangements, and ensuring that medical assistance would be readily available at all locations.
Pre-Examination Inspections and Post-Exam Forensic Analysis
The NTA further stated that detailed inspections of all examination centres were scheduled during the week leading up to the test. Additionally, the agency committed to performing forensic analysis of CCTV recordings after the conclusion of the exam. This step was deemed essential for detecting any suspicious behaviour or procedural lapses that might not have been immediately apparent during the examination itself.
Future Shift to Computer-Based Testing Under Consideration
The affidavit also indicated that the High-Powered Steering Committee is expected to convene again once NEET UG 2026 has been fully completed. At that stage, discussions will be held with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to determine whether future NEET examinations should transition to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format or continue with the existing pen-and-paper approach.
Creation of New Senior Positions Within NTA
Addressing internal restructuring, the NTA confirmed that several recommendations from the High-Level Committee of Experts (HLCE) have already been put into effect, with others progressing rapidly. As part of the agency’s reorganisation, 16 new senior-level positions have been established, including roles at the Director and Joint Director ranks.
Additionally, two officers at the Joint Secretary level have been appointed as Additional Director Generals (ADG). One of these officials will oversee technical operations, while the other will assume responsibility for examination security. In a separate move, a Secretary-level officer was appointed as the Director General of the NTA in March 2026.
Expert Collaboration with Leading Institutions
To further strengthen examination management and security, the NTA has brought in specialists from prominent organisations including the Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), the University Grants Commission (UGC), the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), and the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). The collective expertise of these professionals is being leveraged to make the examination process more secure and transparent.
State and District-Level Monitoring Committees Established
In an effort to ensure the safe conduct of examinations nationwide, the agency has established State Level Coordination Committees (SLCC) and District Level Coordination Committees (DLCC). By the time NEET UG 2026 was held on May 3, 2026, a total of 18 SLCCs and 621 DLCCs had been activated across the country.
These committees comprise administrative officials, police representatives, intelligence agencies, NIC personnel, and NTA delegates. Their primary objective is to facilitate improved surveillance and coordination throughout the examination period.
Supreme Court Hearing Expected Shortly
The Supreme Court is anticipated to hear the matter in the near future. The petitioners, citing the alleged irregularities and the paper leak controversy surrounding NEET UG 2026, have pressed for far-reaching improvements in the NTA’s operational methods and accountability mechanisms.
