Last Updated: June 20, 2026
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has clarified its position after a NEET-UG 2026 candidate from Nagpur was allotted an examination centre in Abu Dhabi ahead of the June 21 re-examination. The case drew attention after the candidate’s family claimed that examination cities within Maharashtra had been selected during registration, making the overseas allotment unexpected.
The controversy involved Abdullah Mohammad Talib, a medical entrance aspirant from Nagpur, whose admit card reportedly listed Abu Dhabi Indian School in the United Arab Emirates as his examination centre. His family stated that travelling abroad at short notice was not possible, particularly because the student did not possess a passport.
Following media reports, the NTA issued a clarification stating that its records did not indicate a technical glitch. According to statements attributed to the agency in reports published on June 20, 2026, the examination city preferences were modified through the candidate’s login credentials during the correction window made available to applicants.
Timeline of the Case
|
Date |
Status |
Event |
|
May 15–21, 2026 |
Confirmed |
Examination-city correction window remained open |
|
May 21, 2026 |
Confirmed |
Examination city preferences reportedly modified |
|
May 24, 2026 |
Confirmed |
Bank details reportedly updated through the account |
|
June 7, 2026 |
Confirmed |
City intimation slips released |
|
June 10, 2026 |
Confirmed |
Candidate account reportedly accessed city information |
|
June 16, 2026 |
Confirmed |
Revised admit card downloaded |
|
June 19, 2026 |
Confirmed |
Request for centre correction received |
|
June 20, 2026 |
Confirmed |
Matter gained public attention |
|
June 21, 2026 |
Confirmed |
NEET-UG re-examination scheduled |
NTA’s Clarification
According to media reports citing NTA officials, the candidate’s account selected Abu Dhabi as the first examination-city preference and Dubai as the second preference during the correction period.
The agency stated that the same login credentials were later used for several account-related activities, including updating bank details, accessing examination information, and downloading examination documents.
NTA officials also reportedly stated during media briefings on June 20 that around 3.2 lakh candidates used the examination-city correction facility. The agency further said that more than 99.5% of those candidates received their preferred examination cities. These figures have been reported by multiple national media organisations and reflect the agency’s explanation of the re-examination process.
Cyber Investigation Continues
As part of its response, the NTA referred to digital activity records associated with the candidate’s account. The agency stated that multiple actions on the account were linked to the same IP address over a period of several weeks.
However, digital-forensics experts generally regard IP-based information as supporting evidence rather than conclusive proof of who performed a particular online action. Establishing responsibility typically requires a broader examination of login histories, device records, authentication data, and other technical evidence.
NTA Director General Abhishek Singh has confirmed that the agency’s cyber team is examining the matter further. The investigation is expected to assess whether the changes were made by the candidate, by someone with authorised access to the account, or through unauthorised access.
Centre Reassigned to Nagpur
While maintaining that its records did not point to a system error, the NTA said it took steps to ensure that the candidate could appear for the examination.
According to the agency, a request for a centre change was received on June 19. After completing the necessary formalities, the candidate was reassigned to a medical college examination centre in Nagpur ahead of the re-examination.
As a result, the immediate issue was resolved before the June 21 test.
Examination Security in Focus
The incident has renewed attention on digital security in large-scale entrance examinations. Recent law-enforcement investigations into unauthorised access to NEET-related accounts and refund-related fraud cases have highlighted the importance of safeguarding login credentials and strengthening cybersecurity measures.
Although no connection has been established between those incidents and the present case, the episode has reinforced the need for secure account management and prompt reporting of any discrepancies.
Candidate Safety Advisory
- Access examination services only through official NTA portals.
- Never share passwords, OTPs, or login credentials.
- Avoid unofficial agents or third-party service providers.
- Verify examination updates through official notices and public announcements.
- Report suspicious calls, messages, emails, or payment requests immediately.
Editorial Disclaimer
This article is based on information available in public reports and statements attributed to the National Testing Agency as of June 20, 2026. The investigation remains ongoing and further findings may emerge. Readers should verify future updates through official NTA notifications, public notices, and authorised communication channels. In the event of any discrepancy, official communications issued by the NTA shall prevail.