Supreme Court Orders India Government to Reform NEET-UG Exams

The Supreme Court of India ordered the Central Government and the National Testing Agency (NTA) to file detailed affidavits regarding institutional reforms following the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak. A bench of Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe rejected temporary measures, such as using the Indian Air Force for transporting question papers, describing such actions as insufficient ad hocism.

The court requires specific plans for a new governing board, expert-led units, and a transition to computer-based testing with enhanced data protection safeguards. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the court that reforms are being conducted under high-level executive supervision and that the government is committed to addressing student concerns.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi previously stated that the leaks were no ordinary matter, pledging to use fast-track courts and stricter punishments to combat the issue. The Supreme Court intends to monitor the implementation of these structural changes throughout the year, with the next hearing scheduled for July 27.