NEET 2026 Red Card: Gehlot Accuses Cover-Up, Cheers CBI’s Entry Into The Exam Room

Jyoti Rathi May 12, 2026 250 Views

The cancellation of NEET 2026 over alleged paper leak irregularities has triggered a fresh political storm in Rajasthan, with former chief minister Ashok Gehlot accusing the BJP government of a “cover-up” and hailing the Centre’s decision to hand the probe to the CBI. Gehlot claims the state sat on crucial inputs for nearly two weeks, putting lakhs of aspirants’ futures at risk.

NEET 2026, held on May 3, was cancelled after law enforcement inputs indicated that the integrity of the exam may have been compromised, following reports that a “guess paper” with a large overlap of questions was circulated ahead of the test. The Centre has now ordered a CBI investigation into the alleged leak and broader examination irregularities.

Allegations Of Delay And Suppression

Gehlot has alleged that the Rajasthan BJP government deliberately tried to hide the NEET leak episode for around two weeks and failed to promptly register an FIR despite serious red flags. He drew parallels with past recruitment exam leaks in the state, arguing that repeated lapses point to systemic failures in safeguarding high stakes examinations.

CBI Probe And Government’s Response

The Union government has asked the CBI to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the NEET 2026 irregularities, with the NTA saying it will fully cooperate and provide all records and digital trails. Rajasthan minister Kirodi Lal Meena has countered the cover up charge, insisting the exam was cancelled and a central probe ordered as soon as overlaps between the “guess paper” and actual questions came to light.

Implications For Students And Exam Reforms

The cancellation means NEET 2026 will be re conducted on fresh dates, adding stress and uncertainty for aspirants who had been preparing for months. The episode is likely to intensify calls for stronger exam security protocols, tighter digital monitoring, tougher penalties for leak networks and greater transparency from agencies like the NTA and state police.

Exam Integrity Flashpoints

NEET 2026 exam cancelled after alleged paper leak and “guess paper” overlap
Centre orders CBI probe into irregularities in the May 3 test
Gehlot accuses Rajasthan BJP govt of trying to suppress leak for two weeks
State minister Meena says swift action, cancellation and CBI referral prove otherwise
Students face fresh uncertainty as NEET re test dates are awaited

Sources: The Shillong Times, ANI News, Monry Control, Deccan Herald

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