NEET Re-test Held Across 97 Centres: Students Face Double Frisking, Paper Leak Allegations Prompt Security Overhaul

Thousands of students in Delhi appeared for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) re-examination on Sunday, conducted under heightened security following the cancellation of the original test due to allegations of a question paper leak.

The exam, organised by the National Testing Agency (NTA), took place across 5,440 centres in 551 cities nationwide, with over 22 lakh candidates registered. In Delhi, the re-test was held at 97 centres, where elaborate security measures were implemented. Several candidates reported that female students underwent double frisking at security checkpoints. "We were even asked to open our hair and undergo a thorough physical check by the security personnel," said a student who requested anonymity.

The weeks between the cancellation of the original exam on May 3 and Sunday's re-test were marked by uncertainty and anxiety for many candidates. Meemansa, a resident of Palam who was allotted a centre at PM Shri Kendriya Vidyalaya, Masjid Moth, said the disruption affected her preparation. "I was not able to study with the same determination as I had given my 100% in the first exam. All these days went in stress and self-doubt, and I just don’t know if I would be able to perform at the same level," she said.

Another student said the re-test initially felt like an opportunity but later became a source of stress. "Now, I just want this day to pass so that I can get rid of the stress," the student said.

A parent waiting outside an examination centre in Dwarka Sector 2 expressed concern about delays: "The re-test will delay the admission process, which will affect other alternative career plans."

Most students described the re-test paper as slightly tougher than the original, with physics emerging as the most challenging section.