No Phones, No Internet: Re-NEET question paper setters put under lockdown till exam day

In one of the strictest security measures adopted for an entrance examination, experts involved in preparing the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate, NEET UG 2026 re-examination question paper have reportedly been placed under lockdown. A report states that they have been shifted to a secure, undisclosed location until the test date, i.e. June 21.

TOI report suggest that the paper setters, moderators, translators, and other personnel associated with the confidential stages of question paper preparation have been isolated from the outside world. It is a part of an enhanced security framework introduced after the NEET UG 2026 May 3 exam paper leak controversy.

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It comes weeks after the Centre cancelled the NEET-UG May 3 examination, following allegations of paper leaks as well as large-scale malpractice. NEET-UG 2026 retest will be conducted in pen-and-paper mode from 2 pm to 5.15 pm across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad.

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No phones, internet access restricted

Officials familiar with the preparations said those involved in setting, reviewing, and translating the question paper are staying at a highly secure facility and are under constant supervision. Mobile phones, laptops, smartwatches, and other communication devices have been prohibited, while internet access and outside contact have been heavily restricted.

Authorities are closely monitoring entry and exit at the facility, and only authorised personnel are allowed access. The lockdown arrangements will remain in place until the examination concludes on June 21.

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Security overhaul

The special measures are part of a major revamp of the examination security system following the controversy that raised concerns among more than 22 lakh candidates across the country. Officials said the lockdown of paper setters is only the first layer of a broader multi-level security framework.

Authorities have strengthened security at every stage of the examination process, including printing, packaging, storage, transportation, and distribution. The process has been divided among different teams to ensure that no single individual has access to the complete chain of operations.

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IAF is being engaged to transport NEET question papers. District authorities have been told to work in close coordination with all concerned departments and ensure that candidates are provided a hassle-free environment on the examination day.

Officials are also carrying out round-the-clock monitoring of social media platforms, messaging applications, and online forums to identify fake question papers, misinformation campaigns, and suspicious activities ahead of the exam.