Telegram Banned in India Ahead of NEET-UG Re-Exam 2026: NTA Cites Fake Paper Leak Scams

By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
Jun 16, 2026
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In a major development ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, the Central Government has ordered a temporary suspension of Telegram services across India. The National Testing Agency (NTA) confirmed that the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) invoked Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, 2000, to block the messaging platform amid growing concerns over fake NEET paper leak claims.

According to the NTA, the restriction will remain in force until June 22, 2026. The move comes just days before the NEET-UG re-examination scheduled for June 21.

Why Has Telegram Been Banned?

The NTA stated that several Telegram channels and groups were allegedly spreading false information regarding NEET-UG 2026 question paper leaks. Authorities found that fraudsters were using the platform to deceive students and parents by promising access to examination papers in exchange for large sums of money.

Officials believe the temporary Telegram ban will help curb misinformation and protect the integrity of India's largest medical entrance examination.

Telegram Edit Feature Disabled Till June 30

Apart from restricting access to Telegram, authorities have directed the platform to disable its message-editing feature in India until June 30, 2026.

Investigators revealed that some users exploited the editing function by attaching files to older messages after the examination had already taken place. This created a false impression that examination papers had been leaked before the test.

Fake NEET Paper Leak Channels Under Scanner

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) has reportedly removed numerous Telegram channels, groups, and bots linked to fake paper leak operations.

Among the channels targeted were those operating under names such as “PAPER LEAKED NEET,” “Re-NEET 2026,” and “NEET MAFIA.” Authorities clarified that all claims made by these channels were completely false and intended to defraud aspirants.

Cyber Crime Agencies Crack Down on Fraud Networks

State law enforcement agencies have intensified action against online examination fraud.

Bihar's Economic Offences Unit recently issued a public warning regarding fake NEET paper leak rackets. Meanwhile, the Ahmedabad Cyber Crime Branch dismantled a network operating through eight Telegram channels.

Investigators claim the interstate cyber fraud syndicate handled transactions worth nearly ₹1.5 crore through fake bank accounts and contacted around 1,000 mobile users within a month.

NTA Issues Advisory to Students

The NTA has urged candidates and parents to remain vigilant against fraudsters offering leaked question papers, guaranteed success, or examination assistance.

Students receiving such offers have been advised to immediately contact the National Cyber Crime Helpline (1930) or submit complaints through the Cyber Crime Reporting Portal.

NEET-UG Re-Exam 2026: Major Changes Announced

The NTA has also revised the examination pattern for the NEET-UG re-test.

Under the updated guidelines released on June 12:

Examination duration increased from 180 minutes to 195 minutes.
Four rough-work sheets will be provided.
Additional space has been allotted for calculations and rough work.

These changes aim to improve candidate convenience during the examination.

Why Is NEET-UG 2026 Being Conducted Again?

The original NEET-UG examination was held across India on May 3, 2026. However, allegations of question paper leaks and irregularities surfaced from several states soon after the test.

Following investigations, the NTA cancelled the examination on May 12. Based on recommendations from central authorities and investigative agencies, the government later decided to conduct a fresh examination to ensure fairness and transparency.

NEET Remains India's Largest Medical Entrance Examination

NEET (National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test) is India's single-window entrance examination for undergraduate medical and dental admissions.

The examination serves as the gateway to MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, Nursing, and allied healthcare programmes offered by government and private institutions across the country. It also determines admissions to premier institutions such as AIIMS and JIPMER.

With more than one lakh medical seats dependent on NEET results, authorities say strict measures are essential to maintain the credibility of the examination system.

For the latest updates on NEET-UG 2026, education policy, competitive examinations, and national developments, follow The Tripura Post.