Telegram Temporarily Restricted to Safeguard NEET-UG 2026 Exam

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has imposed temporary restrictions on Telegram in India ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 exam, aiming to curb fraudulent activities. The platform was reportedly exploited by fraudsters selling fake question papers, potentially compromising the integrity of the examination process.

National Testing Agency (NTA) Director General Abhishek Singh has defended the decision to temporarily restrict Telegram in India due to widespread misuse by fraudsters ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination. Singh explained that the platform was being exploited to sell fake question papers, misleading students and parents.

In an interview with ANI, Singh revealed that channels involved in these activities were operating from countries not particularly friendly to India. Despite potential circumvention via VPNs, Singh insisted that cutting off access breaks the link between students and fraudsters, thereby protecting students from deception.

The NTA, alongside other agencies, has blocked nearly 200 channels and emphasized the temporary restriction as necessary to maintain the exam's fairness and integrity. Singh assured that rigorous security measures are in place, ensuring a malpractice-free examination for NEET-UG 2026 on June 21.