SFI launches NEET complaint cell, demands disclosure of June 21 re-exam attendance

The Students' Federation of India (SFI) on Friday demanded that the National Testing Agency (NTA) release the attendance data of candidates who appeared for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET UG 2026) re-examination held on June 21. SFI alleges a lack of transparency in the conduct of India's largest undergraduate medical entrance examination. NTA NEET answer key LIVE updates.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, attended by SFI All India President Adarsh M Saji, All India Joint Secretary Aishe Ghosh and Delhi State President Sooraj Elamon, the student organisation also questioned the role of a private agency in conducting biometric verification during the re-examination. SFI has announced a nationwide protest programme, and launched a complaint cell for students affected by alleged irregularities.

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NTA conducted re-examination after the May 3 NEET UG exam was cancelled following paper leak allegations. While around 22 lakh candidates appeared for the earlier examination, the NTA stated that more than 20 lakh aspirants took the re-test.

SFI states that the difference in attendance raises questions about the circumstances under which nearly two lakh candidates choose not to appear for the re-examination. "We demand that the NTA release the exact attendance figures of candidates who appeared for the June 21 re-examination," SFI leaders said.

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Cancellation caused mental distress

Students federation alleged that the cancellation of May 3 exam had caused severe mental and financial distress to aspirants and their families. Referring to reports of student suicides following the cancellation, the organisation demanded accountability from the Ministry of Education and the NTA for what it described as repeated examination irregularities.

The student body further sought clarification from the Union government over the engagement of a private company, Innovative View, for biometric verification during the re-examination. SFI claimed the company had previously been blacklisted by some state governments and questioned how it was entrusted with responsibilities in the examination process. The organisation did not provide official documents during the press conference to substantiate the claim.

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SFI also criticised Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over his remarks describing protesting students as the "B-Team of terrorists". The organisation termed the remarks "insensitive" and said peaceful protests demanding accountability could not be equated with anti-national activities.

"Protesting for students' rights is not terrorism. Instead of responding to the concerns raised by students, the government has chosen to attack those demanding justice," the organisation said.

NEET complaint cell

SFI announced the launch of a NEET Complaint Cell to collect grievances from students and parents who believe they were affected by irregularities in the conduct of NEET UG 2026. According to the organisation, the online platform had received 1,021 complaints as of Friday morning. SFI said it would provide legal and organisational assistance to affected students and pursue valid complaints through appropriate forums.