NEW DELHI: Calling the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026 deeply distressing for lakhs of medical aspirants, the Faculty Association of AIIMS (FAIMS) has demanded compensation for affected students, a fast-track probe into the alleged paper leak and sweeping reforms in the country’s examination system.In a representation sent to the ministries of education and health and the AIIMS director, the faculty body said repeated paper leaks had “severely shaken” public faith in national examinations and caused “unprecedented mental trauma, uncertainty and economic burden” on students and families.More than 22 lakh candidates appeared for the exam this year out of nearly 22.75 lakh registered aspirants, the association said, adding that students across hundreds of cities had invested years of preparation and significant financial resources.While welcoming the decision to refund examination fees and conduct a fresh test without additional charges, FAIMS said the measures were “grossly inadequate”. It sought reimbursement for travel, accommodation and other incidental expenses incurred by candidates and their families because of the cancelled examination.The association also demanded a fast-track investigation and prosecution of all individuals involved in the alleged paper leak, including any institutional or insider involvement, with public disclosure of findings. The representation was signed by FAIMS president Dr Amarinder Singh Malhi and general secretary Dr Keshav Goyal.FAIMS proposed setting up an independent “Examination Integrity Commission” with statutory authority and cyber-security experts to oversee national examinations and prevent future leaks. It also sought mental health support for NEET aspirants, age relaxation for affected candidates and a review of National Testing Agency governance mechanisms.
