Telegram Ban Aims to Disrupt NEET Fraud Networks Ahead of Re-Exam, Says NTA Chief

Defending the government's decision to block access to Telegram ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21, Abhishek Singh, Director General of the National Testing Agency, said the measure is intended to curb exam-related fraud, even though determined operators may still bypass restrictions using virtual private networks (VPNs).

In an interview with ANI, Singh acknowledged that the ban is not entirely foolproof. However, he argued that restricting access to Telegram would significantly reduce the reach of fraudulent networks that allegedly exploit students by circulating fake question paper leak claims.

“Even if some operators continue using VPNs, the absence of a large student audience will weaken their business model,” Singh said, adding that the move is aimed at preventing aspirants from losing money and falling victim to scams linked to fabricated paper leaks.

Security Agencies Tracking Fraud Networks

According to Singh, multiple agencies, including the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre, state police forces, special task forces and investigative agencies, have been monitoring suspicious channels and online groups for an extended period.

He noted that fraudulent channels often reappear under different names after being removed, making enforcement challenging. The interconnected use of messaging platforms, file-sharing services and payment gateways by such networks prompted authorities to opt for broader preventive measures ahead of the examination.

Massive Logistical Challenge

Responding to criticism that the government has adopted excessive measures, including deploying military resources and blocking an entire platform, Singh said the actions were necessary to safeguard students and maintain the integrity of the examination.

He highlighted that the NEET re-examination had to be organised within just 37 days, compared to the usual five to six months required for planning and execution.

The compressed timeline involved:

• Setting question papers
• Proofreading and verification
• Translation into 13 languages
• Printing approximately 22 lakh question papers
• Secure transportation to examination centres

Singh said support from the Indian Air Force and the Ministry of Defence helped reduce transportation timelines from nearly three weeks to just three or four days.

Multi-Layered Security Measures

The NTA chief said additional security layers have been introduced at every stage of the examination process, including question paper preparation, translation, printing, storage and distribution.

To ensure smooth conduct of the examination, the agency has coordinated with several government bodies, including:

• Ministry of Home Affairs
• Paramilitary forces
• India Post
• Ministry of External Affairs
• State governments and police departments

The NEET-UG 2026 re-examination is scheduled to be conducted across 5,440 examination centres in India and 14 centres overseas.

The government's actions come amid heightened scrutiny of examination security following allegations of irregularities, with authorities seeking to reassure students and parents that stringent safeguards are in place to ensure a fair and transparent testing process.