The Government of India has temporarily restricted access to Telegram across the country ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-test scheduled for June 21. The restriction is expected to remain in effect until June 22 as part of efforts to prevent exam-related fraud and misinformation.
According to officials, multiple Telegram channels were allegedly claiming to provide leaked NEET re-test question papers and were demanding money from students and parents. Authorities have warned that such claims are fraudulent and urged candidates to rely only on official announcements issued by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Investigators also raised concerns about the misuse of Telegram's message-editing feature, which was reportedly used to alter older messages and present them as false evidence of question paper leaks. As a result, additional restrictions have been imposed on certain platform features during the examination period.
The NTA welcomed the government's decision, stating that the temporary restriction is intended to protect the integrity of the examination process and ensure a fair environment for all candidates. While the move has sparked debate among users and digital rights advocates, officials maintain that it is a precautionary measure aimed at preventing misinformation and organized cheating attempts before the re-examination.
Further announcements regarding the restoration of Telegram services are expected after the NEET-UG re-test concludes.
