No Telegram Before NEET Re-Exam: Centre Cracks Down on Fake Paper Leak Networks
Just days before the NEET UG 2026 re-examination, authorities have rolled out strict measures to curb online scams and misinformation targeting students. The National Testing Agency (NTA) announced that Telegram access in India will remain restricted until June 22, while the platform's message-editing feature has been suspended until June 30.
The move comes as officials intensify efforts to stop fraudsters from spreading fake paper leak claims and misleading students ahead of the medical entrance examination scheduled for June 21.
According to the NTA, several Telegram groups had allegedly been operating by claiming they possessed the NEET question paper and offering access in exchange for money. Investigators found that such channels were being used to attract students and parents with promises of leaked exam material and guaranteed results.
The agency reiterated that no person or platform has access to the NEET question paper before the examination and warned candidates against believing or paying for such claims.
Authorities said cybercrime agencies have been working closely with state police departments to identify and remove channels, groups and bots linked to examination-related scams. Investigations have been carried out in multiple states, with enforcement agencies taking action against individuals accused of running fraudulent networks targeting NEET aspirants.
Officials also decided to disable Telegram's message-editing function after discovering that it had allegedly been misused in previous examination controversies. In some cases, old messages were reportedly edited after exams to insert actual question papers or answer keys, creating false impressions that the paper had been leaked beforehand.
The NTA said the temporary restrictions are aimed at protecting the integrity of the examination process and preventing the spread of fabricated evidence online.
Students have been advised to ignore rumours, avoid suspicious offers and rely only on official information released by the NTA. The agency has also urged candidates and parents to report any fraud attempts or misleading claims to cybercrime authorities.
