India temporarily blocks Telegram to prevent NEET-UG 2026 paper leaks

In a move aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, the Centre has temporarily blocked messaging platform Telegram across India until June 22.

The decision was taken following recommendations from the National Testing Agency (NTA), which raised concerns about the possibility of examination material being leaked or tampered with through online channels.

According to the NTA, the suspension is intended only for the duration of the examination period and the days immediately after it. Authorities said the measure is designed to prevent any attempts to circulate or manipulate sensitive content linked to the medical entrance test.

The temporary restriction comes as the government steps up efforts to ensure a fair and secure conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination.

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In addition to the temporary ban, the government has directed Telegram to switch off its message-editing functionality in India until June 30.

The NTA said the feature had previously been exploited to create false claims of question paper leaks. By editing existing messages and replacing files while keeping the original timestamp intact, administrators were allegedly able to make it appear that examination papers had been shared before the test.

According to the agency, organised cheating syndicates have increasingly used Telegram to target students appearing for the June 21 re-examination.

“Both measures have been taken in the interest of public order, in response to the organised use of the platform by cheating rackets to defraud candidates appearing for the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination," the NTA said.

Authorities said they had already taken down several channels, groups and bots that were allegedly being used to spread fraudulent claims about access to the question paper. However, the agency concluded that those efforts were not enough, making broader intervention at the platform level necessary.

The NTA acknowledged that the restrictions would affect millions of legitimate users who rely on Telegram for communication. However, it maintained that the measures are temporary and aimed solely at preserving the credibility and fairness of one of India's most significant entrance examinations.

The service is expected to be restored either this weekend or early next week, while the message-editing feature will remain disabled until the end of June.